Hollywood Actresses You Might Not Know Have Passed Away

The fast-paced nature of the news cycle often means that the passing of beloved figures can slip under the radar. While some deaths dominate headlines for weeks, others happen quietly or are overshadowed by other global events. Many of these women defined eras of television and film with their talent and grace. This list pays tribute to Hollywood actresses whose recent or untimely deaths you may have missed.

Teri Garr

Teri Garr was a comedic force known for her expressive acting and an Oscar-nominated performance in ‘Tootsie’. She delighted audiences with her memorable roles in classics like ‘Young Frankenstein’ and ‘Mr. Mom’. The actress battled multiple sclerosis for many years and became an advocate for others with the condition. She passed away in October 2024 after a long career that influenced a generation of comedic performers. Her legacy remains one of vibrant energy and undeniable charm.

Shelley Duvall

Shelley Duvall was an iconic figure in cinema known for her wide-eyed expressions and unique screen presence. She gained cinematic immortality for her role as Wendy Torrance in the horror classic ‘The Shining’. Duvall also collaborated frequently with director Robert Altman on films such as ‘3 Women’ and ‘Popeye’. She passed away in July 2024 due to complications from diabetes. Her contributions to film and children’s television continue to be celebrated by fans worldwide.

Gena Rowlands

Gena Rowlands was a powerhouse of American cinema who earned acclaim for her raw and emotional performances. She received Academy Award nominations for her roles in ‘A Woman Under the Influence’ and ‘Gloria’. Modern audiences often recognize her from her touching performance in ‘The Notebook’, which was directed by her son. Rowlands passed away in August 2024 following a battle with Alzheimer’s disease. She left behind a profound body of work that explored the complexities of the human condition.

Shannen Doherty

Shannen Doherty became a global teen idol through her role as Brenda Walsh in the hit series ‘Beverly Hills, 90210’. She later found massive success as Prue Halliwell in the supernatural drama ‘Charmed’. Doherty was very open about her long and difficult battle with cancer, sharing her journey to inspire others. She passed away in July 2024 at the age of 53. Her resilience and extensive television career made her a defining figure of 90s pop culture.

Piper Laurie

Piper Laurie was a celebrated actress whose career spanned seven decades and garnered three Academy Award nominations. She is perhaps best known for her chilling portrayal of the religious fanatic mother in the horror film ‘Carrie’. Laurie also delivered a memorable performance in ‘The Hustler’ and starred in the cult television series ‘Twin Peaks’. She passed away in October 2023 at the age of 91. Her ability to play complex and often dark characters cemented her status as a Hollywood legend.

Suzanne Somers

Suzanne Somers became a household name for her role as Chrissy Snow on the sitcom ‘Three’s Company’. She later successfully reinvented herself as an entrepreneur and the star of the sitcom ‘Step by Step’. Somers was also a prominent author and health advocate throughout her later years. She passed away in October 2023 following a long battle with breast cancer. Her bubbly on-screen persona masked a savvy business mind that kept her relevant for decades.

Glynis Johns

Glynis Johns was a Tony Award-winning actress best known for playing Winifred Banks in the Disney classic ‘Mary Poppins’. Her distinctive husky voice and charm made her a standout performer on both stage and screen. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role in ‘The Sundowners’. Johns passed away in January 2024 at the impressive age of 100. She was one of the last surviving stars from the Golden Age of Hollywood.

Annie Wersching

Annie Wersching was a dynamic television actress known for her role as Renee Walker in the action series ’24’. She also captivated audiences as the Borg Queen in ‘Star Trek: Picard’ and voiced Tess in the video game ‘The Last of Us’. Wersching kept her cancer diagnosis private while continuing to work on high-profile projects. She passed away in January 2023 at the age of 45. Her intensity and range made her a favorite among fans of genre television.

Kirstie Alley

Kirstie Alley rose to fame as Rebecca Howe on the long-running sitcom ‘Cheers’, a role that earned her an Emmy Award. She also starred in the popular ‘Look Who’s Talking’ film franchise alongside John Travolta. Alley remained a fixture on television with roles in ‘Veronica’s Closet’ and various reality competitions. She passed away in December 2022 after a short battle with colon cancer. Her comedic timing and confident presence defined her extensive career.

Anne Heche

Anne Heche was an acclaimed actress known for films like ‘Six Days, Seven Nights’ and ‘Donnie Brasco’. She also won a Daytime Emmy for her early work on the soap opera ‘Another World’. Her career included diverse roles in television, film, and theater productions. Heche passed away in August 2022 following injuries sustained in a car accident. Her work is remembered for its emotional depth and versatility.

Louise Fletcher

Louise Fletcher achieved cinematic history with her Oscar-winning portrayal of Nurse Ratched in ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’. Her performance is considered one of the greatest villainous turns in film history. She also had a recurring role as Kai Winn in the sci-fi series ‘Star Trek: Deep Space Nine’. Fletcher passed away in September 2022 at her home in France. Her imposing screen presence allowed her to command every scene she appeared in.

Estelle Harris

Estelle Harris was adored by fans for her role as Estelle Costanza on the sitcom ‘Seinfeld’. Her distinctive high-pitched voice also brought life to Mrs. Potato Head in the ‘Toy Story’ franchise. Harris had a long career in commercials and voice acting before finding sitcom fame. She passed away in April 2022 just weeks before her 94th birthday. Her comedic chemistry with Jerry Stiller created some of television’s most funny moments.

Liz Sheridan

Liz Sheridan was best known for playing Helen Seinfeld, the doting mother of the title character in ‘Seinfeld’. She also had a significant role as the nosy neighbor Mrs. Ochmonek on the show ‘ALF’. Sheridan began her career as a dancer and singer before moving into television acting. She passed away in April 2022, shortly after her co-star Estelle Harris. Her portrayal of an overprotective mother resonated with audiences everywhere.

Tanya Roberts

Tanya Roberts was a model and actress who gained fame as a Bond girl in ‘A View to a Kill’. She also starred in the final season of ‘Charlie’s Angels’ and played Midge Pinciotti on ‘That ’70s Show’. Her career began in commercials before she transitioned to major television and film roles. Roberts passed away in January 2021 due to a urinary tract infection that developed into sepsis. She remains a beloved figure for her contributions to cult classic television.

Dawn Wells

Dawn Wells earned a permanent place in pop culture history as Mary Ann Summers on ‘Gilligan’s Island’. Her character was often contrasted with Ginger as the wholesome girl next door. Wells spent much of her post-sitcom life preserving the legacy of the show and working in theater. She passed away in December 2020 due to complications related to COVID-19. Her warmth and kindness made her a fan favorite for over half a century.

Conchata Ferrell

Conchata Ferrell was a celebrated character actress best known for playing Berta the housekeeper on ‘Two and a Half Men’. Her deadpan delivery earned her two Primetime Emmy nominations for the role. Ferrell also had a long career on stage and appeared in films like ‘Edward Scissorhands’. She passed away in October 2020 following a cardiac arrest. Her ability to steal scenes with a single line made her an essential part of the sitcom’s success.

Diana Rigg

Diana Rigg was a British icon who gained international fame as Emma Peel in the 1960s series ‘The Avengers’. She also played Teresa di Vicenzo, the only woman to marry James Bond, in ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’. Later in life, she won a new legion of fans as Olenna Tyrell in ‘Game of Thrones’. Rigg passed away in September 2020 after being diagnosed with cancer. Her career was defined by strong, intelligent female characters.

Honor Blackman

Honor Blackman was another legendary actress known for her role in ‘The Avengers’ as Cathy Gale. She is perhaps most famous for playing Pussy Galore in the James Bond film ‘Goldfinger’. Blackman had a prolific career in British television and theater that lasted well into her 90s. She passed away in April 2020 from natural causes. Her beauty and martial arts skills helped redefine the role of women in action media.

Kelly Preston

Kelly Preston was a vibrant actress who starred in films such as ‘Jerry Maguire’, ‘Twins’, and ‘For Love of the Game’. She was married to actor John Travolta and they appeared together in several projects. Preston worked consistently in Hollywood for decades, showcasing her talent in both comedy and drama. She passed away in July 2020 after a private two-year battle with breast cancer. Her work is remembered for its charm and emotional honesty.

Naya Rivera

Naya Rivera found stardom as Santana Lopez on the musical comedy-drama series ‘Glee’. Her character broke ground for LGBTQ+ representation on primetime television. Rivera was also a talented singer and dancer who received critical acclaim for her performances. She passed away in July 2020 in a tragic accidental drowning at Lake Piru. Her legacy continues through the impact her character had on young viewers.

Elizabeth Peña

Elizabeth Peña was a versatile actress known for her work in ‘La Bamba’ and ‘Jacob’s Ladder’. She also provided the voice for the character Mirage in the Pixar superhero film ‘The Incredibles’. Her career spanned four decades and included roles in both independent films and major blockbusters. Peña passed away in October 2014 due to cirrhosis of the liver. She was a trailblazer for Hispanic actresses in Hollywood.

Glenne Headly

Glenne Headly was a respected actress known for her roles in ‘Dirty Rotten Scoundrels’ and ‘Dick Tracy’. She received Emmy nominations for her work in the miniseries ‘Lonesome Dove’ and the film ‘Bastard Out of Carolina’. Headly was an ensemble member of the Steppenwolf Theatre Company and had a strong background in stage acting. She passed away in June 2017 from complications of a pulmonary embolism. Her unique voice and comedic timing made her a standout performer.

Margot Kidder

Margot Kidder became a global superstar for her portrayal of Lois Lane in the ‘Superman’ film series alongside Christopher Reeve. She appeared in horror classics like ‘Black Christmas’ and ‘The Amityville Horror’. Kidder was also a vocal advocate for mental health awareness later in her life. She passed away in May 2018 at her home in Montana. Her tenacious and spirited portrayal of Lois Lane remains the definitive version for many fans.

Katherine Helmond

Katherine Helmond was a comedic legend known for playing Mona Robinson on ‘Who’s the Boss?’ and Jessica Tate on ‘Soap’. She often played vanity-obsessed but lovable characters and was a favorite of director Terry Gilliam. Helmond appeared in his films ‘Brazil’, ‘Time Bandits’, and ‘Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas’. She passed away in February 2019 due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease. Her distinctive style and timing earned her multiple Golden Globe awards.

Georgia Engel

Georgia Engel was best known for her soft-spoken voice and role as Georgette Franklin on ‘The Mary Tyler Moore Show’. She later had recurring roles on ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’ and ‘Hot in Cleveland’. Engel began her career on Broadway and returned to the stage frequently throughout her life. She passed away in April 2019 at the age of 70. Her gentle demeanor and comedic innocence made her a beloved television figure.

Erin Moran

Erin Moran captured hearts as Joanie Cunningham on the iconic sitcom ‘Happy Days’ and its spinoff ‘Joanie Loves Chachi’. She grew up on screen and became a teen idol during the 1970s and 80s. Moran faced personal struggles later in life but remained a cherished part of television history. She passed away in April 2017 from complications of throat cancer. Her portrayal of the feisty younger sister resonated with audiences for generations.

Marcia Wallace

Marcia Wallace was a vibrant actress best known as the voice of Edna Krabappel on ‘The Simpsons’. Before her voice work, she played the receptionist Carol Kester on ‘The Bob Newhart Show’. Wallace won an Emmy Award for her voiceover work and was a frequent guest on game shows. She passed away in October 2013 due to pneumonia and complications from breast cancer. Her character was retired from the show following her death as a sign of respect.

Brittany Murphy

Brittany Murphy was a rising star known for her roles in ‘Clueless’, ‘8 Mile’, and ‘King of the Hill’. Her bubbly personality and dramatic range allowed her to excel in both comedies and thrillers. Murphy’s sudden death in December 2009 at the age of 32 shocked the entertainment industry. The official cause was ruled as pneumonia and anemia. She left behind a diverse filmography that highlighted her immense potential.

Natasha Richardson

Natasha Richardson was a Tony Award-winning actress and member of the famous Redgrave theatrical family. She starred in films such as ‘The Parent Trap’ and ‘Maid in Manhattan’. Richardson was known for her elegance and skill on both the stage and the screen. She passed away in March 2009 following a skiing accident in Quebec. Her tragic death cut short a brilliant career and life devoted to her family.

Lisa Robin Kelly

Lisa Robin Kelly was known for her role as Laurie Forman, the older sister on ‘That ’70s Show’. Her comedic timing and chemistry with the cast made her a memorable part of the series’ early seasons. Kelly struggled with personal issues that eventually led to her departure from the show. She passed away in August 2013 at the age of 43. Fans remember her for the sharp wit she brought to her character.

Michelle Thomas

Michelle Thomas was a talented actress who played Myra Monkhouse on ‘Family Matters’ and Justine Phillips on ‘The Cosby Show’. She was often cast as the girlfriend of the main characters and brought energy to her scenes. Thomas was diagnosed with a rare form of stomach cancer in the late 1990s. She passed away in December 1998 at the young age of 30. Her performances remain a nostalgic part of 90s television.

Thuy Trang

Thuy Trang was a Vietnamese-American actress best known as Trini Kwan, the original Yellow Ranger in ‘Mighty Morphin Power Rangers’. Her martial arts background helped her secure the iconic role that launched a global franchise. She later appeared in the film ‘The Crow: City of Angels’. Trang passed away in September 2001 in a car accident at the age of 27. She remains a hero to the generation of children who watched her on Saturday mornings.

Jessica Walter

Jessica Walter was an acclaimed actress known for playing the acerbic matriarch Lucille Bluth in ‘Arrested Development’. She also provided the voice for Malory Archer in the animated series ‘Archer’. Her career began in the 1960s and included a Golden Globe-nominated role in ‘Play Misty for Me’. Walter passed away in March 2021 at the age of 80. Her ability to deliver biting insults with sophistication made her a comedic legend.

Helen McCrory

Helen McCrory was a fierce British actress known for her roles as Narcissa Malfoy in the ‘Harry Potter’ series and Polly Gray in ‘Peaky Blinders’. She was a commanding presence on stage and screen, often playing complex and powerful women. McCrory kept her battle with breast cancer private while continuing to work. She passed away in April 2021 at her home in London. Her intense performances earned her deep respect from peers and fans alike.

Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson was a trailblazing actress who refused to take roles that were demeaning to Black women. She won accolades for her performances in ‘Sounder’ and ‘The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman’. Tyson’s career spanned more than seven decades and she received an Honorary Academy Award. She passed away in January 2021 at the age of 96. Her legacy is defined by her dignity and her commitment to authentic representation.

Cloris Leachman

Cloris Leachman was one of the most decorated actresses in television history with eight Primetime Emmy Awards. She won an Oscar for ‘The Last Picture Show’ and delighted audiences as Frau Blücher in ‘Young Frankenstein’. Her career ranged from serious drama to the manic comedy of ‘Malcolm in the Middle’. Leachman passed away in January 2021 at the age of 94. She remained active in the industry until the very end of her life.

Olympia Dukakis

Olympia Dukakis was a celebrated stage and screen veteran who won an Oscar for her role in ‘Moonstruck’. She was also well known for playing the eccentric Clairee Belcher in ‘Steel Magnolias’. Dukakis often played wise and worldly characters that anchored the films she appeared in. She passed away in May 2021 at the age of 89. Her warmth and sharp wit made her a favorite among audiences.

Sally Kellerman

Sally Kellerman was best known for her role as Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan in the film version of ‘MASH’. The role earned her an Academy Award nomination and established her as a major talent. She had a distinctive voice that was often used in voiceover work and singing. Kellerman passed away in February 2022 from heart failure. Her contribution to 70s cinema remains highly influential.

Yvette Mimieux

Yvette Mimieux was a star of the 1960s known for her role in the sci-fi classic ‘The Time Machine’. She also starred in ‘Where the Boys Are’ and wrote television movies later in her career. Mimieux was a Golden Globe nominee who retired from acting to focus on other interests. She passed away in January 2022 shortly after turning 80. Her ethereal beauty and talent defined a specific era of Hollywood.

Kathryn Kates

Kathryn Kates was a character actress known for her recurring roles in ‘Seinfeld’ and ‘Orange Is the New Black’. She was often referred to as “The Counter Woman” in her memorable ‘Seinfeld’ appearances. Kates had a successful career in theater and was a founding member of the Colony Theatre in Los Angeles. She passed away in January 2022 from lung cancer. Her work added flavor and authenticity to many New York-based productions.

Marsha Hunt

Marsha Hunt was a star of the 1930s and 40s whose career was derailed by the Hollywood blacklist. Despite this, she became a tireless activist for humanitarian causes and continued to work in theater and television. She appeared in films like ‘Pride and Prejudice’ and ‘Raw Deal’. Hunt passed away in September 2022 at the age of 104. She was one of the last surviving actors from Hollywood’s Golden Age.

Stella Stevens

Stella Stevens was a prominent actress in the 1960s who starred alongside Elvis Presley in ‘Girls! Girls! Girls!’. She is also well remembered for her role in the disaster film ‘The Poseidon Adventure’ and the comedy ‘The Nutty Professor’. Stevens worked consistently in television and film for decades. She passed away in February 2023 after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. Her performances combined glamour with a distinct comedic flair.

Cindy Williams

Cindy Williams achieved television immortality as Shirley Feeney on the hit sitcom ‘Laverne & Shirley’. She also had notable roles in the films ‘American Graffiti’ and ‘The Conversation’. Her partnership with Penny Marshall created one of the most beloved duos in TV history. Williams passed away in January 2023 following a brief illness. Her physical comedy and energetic spirit brought joy to millions of viewers.

Raquel Welch

Raquel Welch was an international sex symbol and actress who rose to fame in ‘One Million Years B.C.’. She proved her comedic chops by winning a Golden Globe for ‘The Three Musketeers’. Welch was a pop culture icon who appeared on countless magazine covers and television specials. She passed away in February 2023 after a cardiac arrest. Beyond her image, she was a savvy businesswoman and performer.

Glenda Jackson

Glenda Jackson was a two-time Oscar-winning actress who later became a Member of Parliament in the UK. She won Academy Awards for ‘Women in Love’ and ‘A Touch of Class’. After a long political career, she returned to acting and won a Tony Award in 2018. Jackson passed away in June 2023 at her home in London. She was known for her fierce intelligence and commanding presence in every field she entered.

Jane Birkin

Jane Birkin was an actress and singer who became a fashion icon and the inspiration for the Hermès Birkin bag. She starred in films like ‘Blow-Up’ and ‘Death on the Nile’. Her musical collaboration with Serge Gainsbourg defined the French pop sound of the 1970s. Birkin passed away in July 2023 in Paris. Her influence on style and culture remains profound decades after her peak.

Arleen Sorkin

Arleen Sorkin was a comedic actress and writer who originally voiced Harley Quinn in ‘Batman: The Animated Series’. The character was inspired by Sorkin herself and was intended to be a one-off role. She also played Calliope Jones on the soap opera ‘Days of Our Lives’. Sorkin passed away in August 2023 due to complications from multiple sclerosis. Her voice work launched one of the most popular characters in modern comic book history.

Frances Sternhagen

Frances Sternhagen was a veteran character actress with two Tony Awards and a long list of film credits. She is well known to horror fans for her role in ‘The Mist’ and to general audiences as Cliff’s mother in ‘Cheers’. Sternhagen also played the mother of Trey MacDougal in ‘Sex and the City’. She passed away in November 2023 at the age of 93. Her sharp-tongued and no-nonsense characters were always a highlight.

Joyce Randolph

Joyce Randolph was the last surviving member of the main cast of the classic sitcom ‘The Honeymooners’. She played Trixie Norton, the wife of Ed Norton, alongside Jackie Gleason and Art Carney. Although the show only ran for one season initially, it became a television staple for decades. Randolph passed away in January 2024 at the age of 99. Her contribution to television history is cemented through the enduring popularity of the show.

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