Hollywood icon, who started in 1949, dies at 91.
Piper Laurie, the Strong-Willed Hollywood Legend, Passes Away at 91
The world mourns the loss of Piper Laurie, the remarkable and Oscar-nominated actor who defied the odds and delivered unforgettable performances. Despite briefly stepping away from acting in search of a more fulfilling life, Laurie’s talent and spirit continued to shine. She peacefully passed away at her home in Los Angeles at the age of 91.
Laurie’s manager, Marion Rosenberg, confirmed her death, describing her as “a superb talent and a wonderful human being.”
In 1949, Laurie arrived in Hollywood as Rosetta Jacobs, quickly catching the attention of Universal-International. Although she despised her new stage name, she embarked on a journey that led to starring roles alongside icons like Ronald Reagan, Rock Hudson, and Tony Curtis.
Throughout her illustrious career, Laurie received Academy Award nominations for three distinct films: the gripping 1961 drama “The Hustler,” the chilling adaptation of Stephen King’s “Carrie” in 1976, and the heartfelt romantic drama “Children of a Lesser God” in 1986. She also left an indelible mark on television and the stage, notably as the villainous Catherine Martell in David Lynch’s “Twin Peaks” during the 1990s.
Laurie’s journey began at the age of 17 when she made her debut in “Louisa,” portraying Reagan’s daughter. She went on to star alongside Francis the talking mule in ”Francis Goes to the Races” and shared the screen with her former flame, Tony Curtis, in several films.
However, Laurie’s frustration with the industry reached its peak in 1955 when she walked away from her $2,000-a-week contract, vowing not to return unless offered a substantial role. She sought solace in New York, where she found fulfillment in theater and live television drama.
Her performances in “Days of Wine and Roses,” ”The Deaf Heart,” and “The Road That Led After” earned her Emmy nominations and paved the way for a triumphant return to films. Notably, she portrayed Paul Newman’s troubled girlfriend in the critically acclaimed “The Hustler.”
For many years, Laurie turned her back on acting, embracing a new chapter in her life. She married film critic Joseph Morgenstern, became a mother to Ann Grace, and settled in a farmhouse in Woodstock, New York. Laurie attributed her decision to the influence of the Civil Rights Movement and the Vietnam War.
Reflecting on her choice, Laurie stated, “I was disenchanted and looking for an existence more meaningful for me.” She never regretted her decision, finding fulfillment in painting and baking, with her recipes even appearing in The New York Times.
During this period, Laurie’s only performances occurred when she joined a group of musicians and actors on a college campus tour to support Sen. George McGovern’s 1972 presidential campaign.
Eventually, Laurie felt the call to return to acting, and it was director Brian De Palma who reignited her passion. He offered her the role of the deranged mother in “Carrie.” Initially skeptical, Laurie eventually embraced the role, unaware that De Palma intended the film to be a thriller rather than a comedy.
“Carrie” became a box-office sensation, sparking a wave of movies centered around teenagers in peril. Both Laurie and her co-star, Sissy Spacek, received Academy Award nominations for their outstanding performances.
With her love for acting reignited, Laurie embarked on a busy career that spanned decades. She graced television screens in popular series such as “Matlock,” “Murder, She Wrote,” and “Frasier,” and portrayed George Clooney‘s mother on “ER.”
The Western Journal has reviewed this Associated Press story and may have altered it prior to publication to ensure that it meets our editorial standards.
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In what ways did Piper Laurie’s return to Hollywood in the 1970s allow her to choose roles that resonated with her?
Zed/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Vietnam War. She felt a strong calling to become more politically active and make a difference in the world.
However, Laurie’s passion for acting never truly waned, and in the late 1960s, she began to dip her toes back into the industry. She returned to Hollywood in the early 1970s and embraced her newfound freedom to choose roles that truly resonated with her.
It was in 1976 that Laurie delivered what would become one of her most iconic performances. In Brian De Palma’s “Carrie,” she portrayed Margaret White, the fanatically religious and abusive mother of the titular character. Laurie’s chilling portrayal earned her an Academy Award nomination and firmly established her as a force to be reckoned with in the horror genre.
As Laurie matured, her roles continued to showcase her versatility and depth as an actor. In 1986, she starred alongside William Hurt in “Children of a Lesser God,” playing a persistent speech therapist trying to help a deaf woman find her voice. Her sensitive and nuanced portrayal earned her another Oscar nomination and solidified her status as one of Hollywood’s most respected actors.
Throughout her career, Laurie also became known for her potent presence on the small screen. In 1990, she joined the cast of David Lynch’s groundbreaking series ”Twin Peaks” as Catherine Martell, a conniving and mysterious character. Laurie’s performance was unforgettable, leaving a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike.
As news of Laurie’s passing spread, tributes poured in from fellow actors and industry professionals, highlighting her immense talent and unwavering spirit. Laurie will be remembered as a Hollywood legend who defied expectations, pursued her passions, and left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
Piper Laurie’s remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to artists and individuals alike, reminding us that it is never too late to pursue our dreams and make a lasting impact. Her legacy will continue to live on through her timeless performances and the influence she had on future generations of actors.
As we bid farewell to this strong-willed Hollywood legend, let us celebrate Piper Laurie’s extraordinary life and contributions to the world of entertainment, forever grateful for the indelible mark she left behind.
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