Jackie Burroughs was an English-born American actress who is best known for her roles in The Grey Fox, Anne of Green Gables, and Avonlea. Born on February 2, 1939, in Lancashire, England, she made a significant impact in film and television throughout her career.
Personal and Family Life
Jackie Burroughs moved to Toronto, Canada, with her family at the age of 13. She attended Branksome Hall, a private girls’ school, and graduated from the University of Toronto in 1962. She was previously married to Zal Yanovsky from the 1960s band The Lovin’ Spoonful, with whom she had one daughter, Zoe Yanovsky.
Career Highlights
Before making her film debut in The Ernie Game (1967), Jackie acted in live theatre at Ontario’s Stratford Festival. She became widely recognized for her performances in films such as The Grey Fox (1982), which earned her a Genie Award, and The Dead Zone (1983). On television, she gained fame for playing Mrs. Amelia Evans in Anne of Green Gables (1985) and Hetty King in Avonlea (1990), winning multiple Gemini Awards for these roles. Additionally, Jackie produced, directed, co-wrote, and starred in A Winter Tan (1987), which also won her a Genie Award.
Death and Legacy
Jackie Burroughs passed away on September 22, 2010, at her home in Toronto due to gastric cancer. She was surrounded by close friends and family during her final moments. Her legacy lives on through her memorable performances and the impact she made in film and television.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Willard | 2003-03-14 | Mrs. Stiles |
| The Care Bears Movie | 1985-03-23 | Spirit (voice) |
| The Dead Zone | 1983-10-21 | Vera Smith |
| Heavy Metal | 1981-08-07 | Katherine (voice) |
| Deck the Halls | 2006-11-22 | Mrs. Ryor |
| Higglety Pigglety Pop! or There Must Be More to Life | 2010-03-02 | Mother Goose |
| Last Night | 1998-10-23 | The Runner |
| Lost and Delirious | 2001-01-21 | Fay Vaughn |
| Food of the Gods II | 1989-05-18 | Dr. Kate Travis |
| The Grey Fox | 1982-12-16 | Kate |
| Anne of Green Gables | 1985-12-01 | Mrs. Amelia Evans |