- Award-winning actress Sally Kirkland, known for the hit 1987 film Anna, passed away at 84 in hospice care where she had been receiving specialised attention
- She had been diagnosed with dementia a year ago, with friends even setting up a GoFundMe after she suffered injuries from a fall in the shower
- News of her death sparked emotional tributes from fans and colleagues worldwide, honouring her as a legendary actress
Oscar-nominated actress Sally Kirkland has passed away after a year-long struggle with dementia, her manager confirmed.
Source: Facebook
She died peacefully in hospice care on Tuesday, November 11, at 4:50 am, surrounded by friends and family.
What happened to Sally Kirkland?
According to TMZ, Sally had been receiving round-the-clock care in a specialised facility.
Renowned publicist at Bridge and Tunnel Communications, Dominic Friesen, told PEOPLE:
“It is with deep sorrow that we share the news of the passing of Academy Award-nominated and Golden Globe-winning actress Sally Kirkland, who died earlier today from natural causes. Surrounded by her close friends and loved ones, Kirkland passed away peacefully, comforted by the overwhelming love and support she received from around the world. She leaves behind a powerful legacy and an exceptional career that will continue to inspire generations to come.”
Earlier, Sally’s friends shared her GoFundMe page, seeking urgent medical assistance after the actress suffered a fall in the shower, leaving her with cuts, bruises, and injuries to her ribs and foot.
“It has been a difficult few months for Sally, whose health has continued to decline. She suffered a fall in the shower while unattended, resulting in injuries to her ribs and foot, along with several cuts and bruises. Sally is currently under round-the-clock care at a specialised facility offering excellent support and safety. We are still working to raise funds to help bridge the gap between her income and the cost of ongoing treatment.”
Sally was best known for her role in the 1987 film Anna, which earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. The film is a drama about a struggling actress in New York.
She also appeared in other notable films like The Sting II, Valley of the Dolls, and Me, Myself & Irene, but Anna remains her most recognised work.
See the post below:
Fans mourn Sally Kirkland
Following news of her death, fans and colleagues around the world took to social media to honour her remarkable career and legacy.
Here are some of their tributes:
Mel England:
“Oh my dear Sally Kirkland, I just love you so much. Thank you for embracing me, sharing your wisdom and love and talent with me. I’ll never be the same. You’re with Spirit now. You’re free… But today my heart is broken. I love you. Fly with the angels.”
Barton Ortberg:
“I used to see Sally Kirkland every Saturday having breakfast with Robert Forster, Shelley Winters.”
Louise Diana:
“When I was a young actress she took me under her wing. It meant so much to me. She was one of a kind on so many levels.”
Dorez Douglas:
“I met her once many years ago. We had a great conversation and hoped to work together on a project she had in mind. But then she got busy and I left Los Angeles. So we lost touch. But she was a wonderful person and very talented. She will be missed.”
Source: Instagram
What happened to Betty Bayo?
In other news closer to home, gospel singer Betty Bayo passed away on Monday, November 10, while receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital.
Her family revealed that she had been diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia, which had left her very frail in her final days.
Her death came just hours after her last Facebook post on Sunday, November 9, in which she quoted Philippians 4:13 from the Bible.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
