Sally Kirkland Dead at 84 After Entering Hospice

Hollywood is mourning the loss of a beloved star. Sally Kirkland, the Oscar-nominated actress best known for her acclaimed role in the 1987 film Anna, has died at the age of 84. Her representative, Michael Greene, confirmed the news to TMZ on November 11.

Kirkland had recently entered hospice care in Palm Springs, California, after battling dementia for the past year, according to Greene’s earlier statement. A GoFundMe campaign set up to help cover her medical expenses revealed that she had also been treated for bone fractures in her neck, right wrist, and left hip, as well as two serious life-threatening infections in recent months.

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The fundraiser’s heartfelt message described Sally as more than a friend — a maternal figure known for her encouragement, kindness, and generosity.

“She has been a source of unwavering spirit, love, and wisdom for so many,” the message read. “Even though she has touched countless lives, she has never had the luxury of a life partner or children to lean on. Sally always put others first — her craft, her church, her friends, and her community.”

Born to Sally Kirkland Sr., a former Life magazine fashion editor, the actress trained under legendary teacher Lee Strasberg at the Actors Studio. In her early years, she worked as a model and became part of Andy Warhol’s Factory scene in the 1960s before fully committing to acting.

“Andy used to tell me, ‘Just sit in front of the camera and do nothing,’ and I’d say, ‘I’m a Strasberg-trained actress—what do you mean do nothing?’” Kirkland recalled in a 2006 interview with The Malibu Times.

Her breakout came with Warhol’s 1964 experimental film The 13 Most Beautiful Women, marking the beginning of a prolific career spanning more than 200 films and nearly 1,000 hours of television. Her credits included The Sting, JFK, Bruce Almighty, Tom in America, and her career-defining performance in Anna, which earned her an Academy Award nomination and a Golden Globe win in 1988.

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Despite not winning the Oscar, Kirkland’s charm and authenticity shone in her Golden Globe acceptance speech, where she famously joked:

“This is to the Hollywood Foreign Press — all 88 of you. I want to take each one of you home tonight. You have made my day, my week, my month, my year, my lifetime.”

Over her seven-decade career, Sally Kirkland became a symbol of resilience, passion, and artistic integrity. Her legacy lives on through her unforgettable performances and her unwavering dedication to her craft.