Hollywood legend and Golden Globe winner Sally Kirkland has died at the age of 84, just one day after her representatives announced she had entered hospice care while battling dementia.
A Final Battle with Dementia
The acclaimed actress, who received her dementia diagnosis in 2024, had been hospitalised in Palm Springs, California. According to a GoFundMe page established by friends to cover her 'urgent medical care' needs, Kirkland had been struggling with 'two separate life-threatening conditions'.
An update posted on the fundraising page by her friends on Friday stated: 'Thank you for all your love and support. Sally is grateful for your kindness and love. Sally is in hospice now and is resting comfortably. Please hold and send the light for Sally.'
Confirmation and Final Goodbyes
The news of her passing was first reported by TMZ and subsequently confirmed by her representative, Michael Greene. Greene had previously confirmed to the Daily Mail that Kirkland was diagnosed with dementia last year.
He also spoke emotionally about travelling from John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York to be by her side, remarking that she 'will not go until I'm holding her hand'.
Her close friend, Coty Galloway, was by her side in recent days. The crowdfunding effort was initiated by her friends Coty Galloway, Paige Dylan, and Mel England to support Sally's mounting care expenses.
A Series of Health Crises and a Legacy
The GoFundMe page detailed a devastating series of health setbacks over the past year, revealing that Kirkland had 'fractured four bones in her neck, her right wrist, and her left hip'. While recovering from these injuries, she developed two separate life-threatening infections.
Their statement explained the severity of her situation: 'The combination of these injuries and infections have required extensive hospitalisations and rehab beyond the 100 days insurance will cover.'
They added that a lack of proper care was diminishing her chance of a full recovery, but with the right support, they believed she had a strong chance of overcoming these setbacks.
The fundraising campaign had been remarkably successful, with over $58,000 raised towards a $65,000 target at the time of her passing, demonstrating the immense support from fans and the community.
Kirkland's illustrious career spanned decades, with her most notable role in 'Anna' earning her a Golden Globe. She also appeared in popular films and series such as Bruce Almighty, JFK, The Haunted, and the original Charlie's Angels.
