Veteran actress Sally Kirkland, whose career spanned more than six decades and included an Academy Award nomination for her lead role in the 1987 film Anna, has died at the age of 84. Her passing was confirmed by her representative, who said she passed on November 11, 2025, at a hospice in Palm Springs, California.
Kirkland began her professional life as a model and then turned to acting, studying at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and training under Lee Strasberg and Philip Burton. Early in her career she became part of the avant-garde scene around Andy Warhol’s Factory and appeared in films and off-Broadway productions during the 1960s.
Her standout performance in Anna, playing a once-popular actress who mentors a young immigrant, earned her a Golden Globe Award and an Oscar nomination for Best Actress. Over a career of more than 250 film and television credits, she appeared in films such as The Sting, JFK and Bruce Almighty, and television series including Charlie’s Angels, Roseanne and Days of Our Lives.
In recent years, Kirkland’s health had deteriorated. She had suffered multiple fractures — including neck, wrist and hip injuries — developed serious infections and was living with dementia. A GoFundMe set up by friends and supporters in 2024 raised funds to cover gaps in her medical care.
Kirkland’s legacy is one of dedication, risk-taking and an unmistakable intensity on screen. Many in the industry considered her talent a “well-kept secret” until she delivered her breakthrough in Anna.
She is survived by an extensive body of work and the many actors, filmmakers and fans she inspired.
