Catherine Burns was an American actress and children’s book writer, known for her roles in “Last Summer,” “Me, Natalie,” and “Red Sky at Morning.” She garnered critical acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress, at the age of 24 for her work in film.
Personal and Family Life
Catherine Burns was born on September 25, 1945, in New York City. She studied at Hunter College High School and continued her education at both Hunter College and the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. In June 1989, she married Kenneth Shire, and they remained together until her passing in 2019.
Career
Burns made her acting debut in the 1967 television film “The Crucible,” portraying Mary Warren, a character involved in the Salem witch trials. She showcased her talent on stage in the 1968 play “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie,” which earned her critical acclaim and an award for most promising actress. Her film career began with “Last Summer,” where she portrayed a character who suffers a tragic fate, that earned her an Academy Award nomination.
Death and Legacy
Catherine Burns passed away on February 2, 2019, in Lynden, Washington, after an accidental fall. Cirrhosis was also listed as a contributing factor to her death. She is remembered fondly for her early roles and her talent both in acting and writing.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Last Summer | 1969-06-10 | Rhoda |
| Red Sky at Morning | 1971-05-12 | Marcia Davidson |
| Amelia Earhart | 1976-10-25 | Pidge Earhart |
| Night of Terror | 1972-10-10 | Celeste Davillo |
| Me, Natalie | 1969-07-13 | Hester |
| The Catcher | 1972-06-02 | Sara Faber |
| The Crucible | 1967-05-04 | Mary Warren |
| A Memory of Two Mondays | 1971-01-28 | Patricia |
| Two for the Money | 1972-02-26 | Judith Gap |
| Hello Actors Studio | 1988-11-09 | Self |
| The Waltons | 1972-09-14 | |
| Police Story | 1973-03-20 | |
| The Bionic Woman | 1976-01-14 | |
| Medical Center | 1969-09-24 | |
| Cannon | 1971-09-14 | |
| Police Woman | 1974-09-13 | |
| The Word | 1978-11-12 | Lori Cook |
| Great Performances | 1971-01-28 | Patricia |
| Lincoln | 1974-09-06 | Mary Owens |
| Adam-12 | 1968-09-21 | Sandy Rice |
| Love, American Style | 1969-09-29 | Cynthia |