Shirley Knight was an American actress best known for her roles in The Dark at the Top of the Stairs, Sweet Bird of Youth, and As Good as It Gets. She had a prolific career, appearing in over 180 films, TV movies, and stage productions.
Personal and Family Life
Shirley Knight was born on July 5, 1936, in Goessel, Kansas. She was married twice; first to Eugene Persson from 1959 until their divorce in 1969, and then to John Hopkins from 1969 until his death in 1998. She had two children, Kaitlin and Sophie.
Career Highlights
Knight was a prominent member of the Actors Studio and received two Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actress. In addition to her film work, she won a Tony Award in 1976 for her role in Kennedy’s Children and was nominated for multiple Emmy Awards, winning three.
Death and Legacy
Shirley Knight passed away on April 22, 2020, in San Marcos, Texas, due to natural causes. Her extensive body of work and her memorable performances have left a significant mark in the entertainment industry, making her a respected figure among actors.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| As Good as It Gets | 1997-12-19 | Beverly Connelly |
| Shadow Realm | 2002-07-27 | Mrs. Finch |
| The Private Lives of Pippa Lee | 2009-07-07 | Dot Nadeau |
| Little Boy Blue | 1997-06-01 | Doris Knight |
| Diabolique | 1996-03-22 | Edie Danziger |
| Angel Eyes | 2001-05-18 | Elanora Davis |
| Open Window | 2006-09-01 | Ann |
| The Salton Sea | 2002-02-02 | Nancy Plummer |
| Beyond the Poseidon Adventure | 1979-05-18 | Hannah Meredith |
| Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood | 2002-06-07 | Necie Kelleher |
| Sweet Bird of Youth | 1962-03-21 | Heavenly Finley |
| Grandma’s Boy | 2006-01-06 | Bea |