Piper Laurie, a highly accomplished actress with three Oscar nominations, has passed away at the age of 91. Her manager, Marion Rosenberg, described Laurie as a “superb talent and a wonderful human being.” Laurie’s acting career spanned over six decades, starting in Hollywood in 1949 under the name Rosetta Jacobs. She quickly landed a contract with Universal-International, starring alongside prominent actors like Ronald Reagan, Rock Hudson, and Tony Curtis. Her performances in “The Hustler,” “Carrie,” and “Children of a Lesser God” earned her Academy Award nominations.
In addition to her film work, Laurie made a name for herself on television and the stage, appearing in shows like “Twin Peaks” and “Matlock.” Despite her initial success, Laurie took a hiatus from acting in the 1950s, feeling disillusioned with her roles and the Hollywood industry. She moved to New York, where she discovered a passion for theatre and live television drama. Laurie’s decision to leave acting was influenced by the civil rights movement and the Vietnam War, which led her to reevaluate her priorities and seek a more meaningful existence.
Piper Laurie (Via Piper Laurie/Twitter)
During this period, Laurie developed a talent for baking and her recipes were featured in The New York Times. She married film critic Joseph Morgenstern, had a daughter, and settled on a farm in Woodstock, New York. Laurie’s life was marked by a sense of purpose and fulfillment, as she once said, “My life was full. I always liked using my hands, and I always painted.” Although Laurie was absent from acting for many years, she eventually returned to the stage and screen, including a memorable performance as the deranged mother of Sissy Spacek in “Carrie.” The film’s success launched a wave of teen-oriented thrillers, and Laurie’s performance earned her an Oscar nomination.
Throughout her life, Laurie remained committed to her passions, whether acting, baking, or painting. Her legacy is one of dedication, talent, and inspiration, leaving behind a lasting impact on the world of entertainment.
