Shelley Duvall passed away on Thursday, July 11 at the age of 75. She was a celebrated actress known for her roles in several acclaimed films, many directed by Robert Altman, including “3 Women,” “McCabe and Mrs. Miller,” and others. However, her most famous and controversial role was as Wendy Torrance in Stanley Kubrick’s 1980 horror classic “The Shining,” alongside Jack Nicholson.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Shelley died at her home in Blanco, Texas, due to complications from diabetes. Her longtime partner Dan Gilroy confirmed her death, offering a tribute: “My dear, sweet, wonderful life partner and friend left us. Too much suffering lately, now she’s free. Fly away, beautiful Shelley.”
Born in Fort Worth, Texas in 1949, Shelley first crossed paths with Robert Altman in 1970 during the filming of “Brewster McCloud.” Their meeting at a party led to her being cast in the film, after which she moved to Hollywood and starred in several more of Altman’s movies, notably “Popeye,” where she portrayed Olive Oyl opposite Robin Williams.
Prior to “Popeye,” Shelley began work on “The Shining,” a film that would define her career. Despite the movie’s iconic status, it also stirred controversy, particularly noted by criticism from its author, Stephen King, who found the portrayal of Wendy Torrance misogynistic.
Reflecting on her experience with Kubrick’s demanding directing style, Shelley revealed in a 2021 interview with The Hollywood Reporter the toll it took on her mental health. She described the challenges of performing under Kubrick’s perfectionism, often requiring extensive emotional scenes: “You just think about something very sad in your life or how much you miss your family or friends. But after a while, your body rebels.”
Shelley continued acting through the 1980s and 1990s, with notable appearances in various roles. In 2016, however, she attracted attention with a controversial appearance on Dr. Phil, amid reports of mental health struggles, which she later expressed regret over. Her final acting role was in the 2023 horror film “The Forest Hills.” Shelley was briefly married to Bernard Sampson and later had a long-term relationship with musician Dan Gilroy, who was with her until her passing.
In other news – Rapper MusiholiQ’s house destroyed by fire
Rapper MusiholiQ, real name Ncazelo Mtolo, suffered a devastating fire at his home in Umlazi, Durban, reducing it to ashes. MusiholiQ, known for his song “Zimbeqolo” featuring Big Zulu, suspects the fire originated from plugs near the bed where phones were charging. It began by igniting blankets and quickly spread throughout the house.
“There was no one inside the house to notice the fire until it had already spread to other rooms. My sister was in an outer room with her three-month-old daughter,” MusiholiQ explained. Read More
