American actress and former model Sally Kirkland, known for her work in stage, television, and film, has passed away at the age of 84. Kirkland, who received critical acclaim for her roles alongside Paul Newman and Robert Redford in “The Sting” and earned an Oscar nomination for her performance in “Anna” in 1987, died at a hospice in Palm Springs, California, as confirmed by her representative, Michael Greene.
Earlier this fall, a GoFundMe campaign was set up by friends to assist with Kirkland’s medical expenses. She had sustained fractures in four bones, including her neck, right wrist, and left hip, and faced complications such as infections that necessitated hospitalization and rehabilitation.
Throughout her career, Kirkland appeared in numerous films, including “The Way We Were” with Barbra Streisand, “Revenge” with Kevin Costner, “Cold Feet” with Keith Carradine and Tom Waits, “EDtv” directed by Ron Howard, “JFK” directed by Oliver Stone, “Heatwave” with Cicely Tyson, “High Stakes” with Kathy Bates, “Bruce Almighty” with Jim Carrey, and the 1991 TV movie “The Haunted.” She also made a cameo in Mel Brooks’s “Blazing Saddles.”
One of Kirkland’s most notable roles was in “Anna,” where she portrayed a Czech movie star navigating a new life in the U.S. and mentoring a younger actor, played by Paulina Porizkova. Her performance in the film earned her a Golden Globe Award and an Oscar nomination for Best Actress.
On television, Kirkland appeared in various shows, including “Criminal Minds,” “Roseanne,” and “Head Case.” She was a regular cast member on “Valley of the Dolls” and “Charlie’s Angels.”
Born in New York City, Kirkland’s acting career began after graduating from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and studying under renowned mentors such as Philip Burton and Lee Strasberg. She gained early recognition for her role in Andy Warhol’s “13 Most Beautiful Women” in 1964.
Apart from her acting work, Kirkland was involved in volunteer efforts, including supporting the Red Cross. She also participated in stage productions such as Terrence McNally’s “Sweet Eros” and Shakespearean plays like “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and “The Tempest.”
Kirkland was known for her advocacy work for various causes, including AIDS, cancer, and heart disease. She also engaged in charitable activities such as feeding homeless individuals through the American Red Cross and supporting prisoners, particularly youth.
Throughout her career, Kirkland’s dedication to her craft and philanthropic endeavors left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry and beyond.