Piper Laurie, the talented and Oscar-nominated actress who defied expectations and took on diverse and remarkable roles, passed away this weekend at her home in Los Angeles. She was 91 years old.
Laurie’s manager, Marion Rosenberg, confirmed that she died of old age. In a statement, Rosenberg described Laurie as “a brilliant talent and a truly remarkable human being.”
Originally known as Rosetta Jacobs, Laurie arrived in Hollywood in 1949 and quickly signed a contract with Universal-International. She starred alongside renowned actors such as Ronald Reagan, Rock Hudson, and Tony Curtis.
Laurie earned Academy Award nominations for her outstanding performances in three films: “The Hustler” (1961), “Carrie” (1976), and “Children of a Lesser God” (1986). She also made memorable appearances on television and stage, including her role as the villainous Catherine Martell in David Lynch’s “Twin Peaks.”
At the age of 17, Laurie made her debut in the film “Louisa,” playing Reagan’s daughter. She also appeared in several films alongside Tony Curtis, with whom she had a romantic relationship.
Silver Screen Collection via Getty Images
Frustrated with the industry, Laurie walked out on her $2,000-a-week contract in 1955, vowing not to return unless offered meaningful roles.
She moved to New York and found success 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 comeback in films, including her acclaimed role as Paul Newman’s troubled girlfriend in “The Hustler.”
For years, Laurie turned her back on acting, focusing on her personal life. She married film critic Joseph Morgenstern, had a daughter named Ann Grace, and embraced a more meaningful existence. Laurie cited the Civil Rights Movement and the Vietnam War as factors that influenced her decision.
However, Laurie’s passion for acting never waned. She returned to the industry when she was approached by director Brian De Palma to play the deranged mother in “Carrie.” Initially skeptical, Laurie eventually embraced the role, which turned out to be a thrilling success.
Following “Carrie,” Laurie rekindled her acting career and continued to work in film and television for many years. She appeared in popular series such as “Matlock,” “Murder, She Wrote,” and “Frasier,” as well as portrayed George Clooney’s mother on “ER.”
This obituary was written by Bob Thomas, a respected former staff member of The Associated Press. Contributions from Associated Press writer Hannah Fingerhut were included.
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