Tony Winner and Emmy Nominee Elizabeth Franz Dies at 84 – Cause of Death Confirmed

Elizabeth Franz, the acclaimed stage actress known for her Tony-winning performance in Death of a Salesman, has passed away at the age of 84.

Her husband, Christopher Pelham, told the New York Times that Franz died on November 4 at her home in Woodbury, Connecticut, from cancer and a severe reaction to her treatment medication.

Franz had a remarkable career on Broadway and beyond. She won an Obie Award in 1982 for her role as the titular nun in Christopher Durang’s Sister Mary Ignatius Explains It All for You. She earned Tony nominations for her performances in Neil Simon’s Brighton Beach Memoirs in 1983 and Paul Osborn’s Morning’s at Seven in 2002.

Her most celebrated role was as Linda Loman in the 1999 Broadway revival of Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman, starring opposite Brian Dennehy as Willy Loman. Franz brought a fresh, assertive interpretation to the character, which Miller praised, saying she “has discovered in the role the basic underlying powerful protectiveness, which comes out as fury.” Her performance won her the 1999 Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play.

Franz reprised the role for Showtime’s 2000 television adaptation and earned an Emmy nomination for her performance. She often credited her father’s life experiences for informing her portrayal of Linda, noting the challenges he faced as a blue-collar worker who had been dismissed after decades of service.

In addition to these standout roles, Franz appeared in numerous Broadway productions, including The Cherry Orchard, Getting Married, Uncle Vanya, and The Miracle Worker.

Elizabeth Franz leaves behind a legacy of powerful performances and a unique ability to bring depth and humanity to her characters. Her work continues to inspire actors and theater lovers alike.

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