Actress Piper Laurie, known for her iconic roles in “Carrie” and “The Hustler,” has sadly passed away at the age of 91, according to her manager. The cause of her death has not been disclosed. Turner Classic Movies paid homage to Laurie, calling her “one of the most celebrated and formidable actresses of the last half-century.”
Laurie’s career took a brief hiatus early on, as she expressed disappointment with the treatment of young actresses in the industry and the limited roles she was offered. However, she eventually returned to the world of acting and went on to receive multiple Oscar nominations for her outstanding performances in “The Hustler,” “Carrie,” and “Children of a Lesser God.”
In addition to her film work, Laurie also found success on the small screen. She won a Golden Globe for her compelling role in the acclaimed television series “Twin Peaks” and received two Emmy nominations throughout her career.
Born as Rosetta Jacobs in Detroit in 1932, Laurie decided to change her name when she embarked on her acting journey. She began her career with Universal-International, sharing the screen with legendary actors such as Paul Newman, Rock Hudson, Tony Curtis, and Ronald Reagan.
However, Laurie’s dissatisfaction with the industry led her to break her contract with Universal and transition to television movies and series. In 1961, she briefly returned to the silver screen with “The Hustler,” which showcased her remarkable talent. Nevertheless, it was her role in Brian De Palma’s 1976 horror classic, “Carrie,” that marked her memorable comeback.
Laurie cherished her experience filming “Carrie” and described feeling welcomed and embraced by the crew. The film’s success revitalized her career and solidified her status as a beloved actress.
Outside of her professional life, Laurie was previously married to film critic Joe Morgenstern, with whom she had a daughter. While her personal life was somewhat private, her impact on the entertainment industry and the hearts of fans cannot be understated.
Piper Laurie leaves behind a legacy of unforgettable performances and a testament to her resilience in navigating the challenges of Hollywood. Her talent and dedication to her craft will forever be remembered by film enthusiasts and admirers alike.
“Infuriatingly humble tv expert. Friendly student. Travel fanatic. Bacon fan. Unable to type with boxing gloves on.”