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Golden Globe-winning actress Sally Kirkland has died at the age of 84, days after entering hospice care in Palm Springs, California. Her representative, Michael Greene, confirmed to TMZ that the actress passed away peacefully at 1:50 a.m. PST and said she "will be deeply missed."
Kirkland had been battling dementia for the past year and had recently suffered a serious fall that left her with injuries to her ribs and foot. A GoFundMe page set up by friends shared that she had also fractured bones in her neck, wrist, and hip, and developed "two separate life-threatening infections" during her recovery. The fundraiser noted she was "receiving 24/7 care in a specialized facility" before transitioning to hospice.
Born in New York City, Kirkland was the daughter of Vogue fashion editor Sally Kirkland Sr. and Fredric M. Kirkland, a metals dealer. She trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and became part of Andy Warhol's Factory in the 1960s, where she was named one of Warhol's "13 Most Beautiful Women" in 1964. In 1968, she made history as the first actress to appear fully nude on stage in the off-Broadway production "Sweet Eros."
Kirkland's acting career spanned six decades, with more than 200 film and television credits to her name. She gained widespread acclaim for her performance in the 1987 film "Anna," which earned her a Golden Globe and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress. She also received an Independent Spirit Award for the same role.
Beyond "Anna," she appeared in popular films and shows including "Bruce Almighty," "JFK," "Cold Feet," "The Sting," "Charlie's Angels," and "Murder, She Wrote." On television, she made appearances in "Roseanne," "The Nanny," "Felicity," and "Days of Our Lives."
Off-screen, Kirkland was known for her spiritual side — she was an ordained minister and a passionate yoga teacher. She also devoted time to mentoring young actors, including notable names such as Barbra Streisand, Sandra Bullock, and Liza Minnelli.
According to friends, Kirkland's final days were peaceful. A message shared on her GoFundMe page shortly before her passing read, "Sally is on hospice now and is resting comfortably. Please hold and send the light for Sally."
She is survived by her godson and filmmaker Coty Galloway, cousins Brookie, Katherine, and Tina Kirkland, and several close friends.
