- Shelley Duvall was a film icon in the ’70s and ’80s, known for her roles in “Popeye” and “The Shining.”
- After years of recognition and success, she unexpectedly vanished from Hollywood for nearly two decades.
- Until her death, Duvall found solace in a small Texas town, where she lived a quiet life with her long-time partner.
- Here are details of her iconic career and her views about her life away from the spotlight.
Shelley Duvall was an iconic film star in the ’70s and ’80s, renowned for her unique and memorable roles. She worked alongside actors like Robin Williams and Jack Nicholson. Despite her success, Duvall unexpectedly stepped away from the industry for nearly two decades. Her retreat sparked rumors and concerns about her well-being.
Shelley Duvall on June 4, 1986 | Source: Getty Images
Before her passing, Duvall shared her thoughts on her life away from the spotlight. She found peace in a small town in Texas, living quietly with her long-time partner, Dan Gilroy. This feature delves into her early life, her rise to fame, and the serene existence she embraced in her later years.
Shelley Duvall, circa 1987 | Source: Getty Images
Early Life, Career Beginnings, and Rise to Fame
Shelley Alexis Duvall was born on July 7, 1949, in Fort Worth, Texas, to Bob and Bobbie Duvall. Her father began his career as a cattle auctioneer before transitioning to a criminal lawyer. Her mother established a successful real estate business in Houston, founding “Space City Realty” during NASA’s development.
The eldest of four children, Duvall grew up with three younger brothers: Scott, Shane, and Stewart. Her parents eventually settled in Houston, where they raised their family. Tragically, her father passed away in 1995 at the age of 74. Her mother succumbed to complications from the coronavirus pandemic in March 2022, shortly after turning 92.
Shelley Duvall and her mother Bobbi Duvall attend an event in New York on February 23, 1995 | Source: Getty Images
Duvall’s unconventional path to stardom began at a party showcasing the artwork of her then-fiancé, Bernard Sampson. Three crew members from Robert Altman’s film “Brewster McCloud” attended the event and were captivated by her charm and appearance. They invited her to audition, marking the start of her remarkable career in Hollywood.
Shelley Duvall on June 14, 1986 | Source: Getty Images
Duvall’s rise to fame in Hollywood was swift and impactful. She quickly became a favorite of director Robert Altman, with whom she collaborated on seven films. These films which included “McCabe & Mrs. Miller,” “Nashville,” and “3 Women,” brought her recognition.
Her distinctive look and unconventional acting style made her stand out in each role, earning her critical acclaim and a loyal following. Duvall’s most iconic role came in 1980 when she starred as Wendy Torrance in Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining.”
Shelley Duvall, Danny Lloyd, and Jack Nicholson, ‘The Shining’ film, 1980. | Source: Getty Images
Her portrayal of a mother trying to protect her son from her increasingly unhinged husband, played by Jack Nicholson, remains a defining moment in horror cinema. Despite the challenging nature of the role and Kubrick’s demanding direction, Duvall’s performance was memorable and haunting.
In 1980, she played Olive Oyl opposite Robin Williams in Altman’s “Popeye.” Duvall brought the beloved cartoon character to life with her slender figure, wide eyes, and melodic voice. “All it took was to put on the costume, and I knew exactly how to play Olive,” she once said.
Her ability to embody such eccentric roles endeared her to audiences and cemented her status as an unconventional “It girl.” However, Duvall didn’t consider herself beautiful because of her large eyes and prominent ears.
Robin Williams as Popeye, and Shelley Duvall as Olive Oyl, circa 1980 | Source: Getty Images
Despite her impressive success and unique talent, Duvall gradually withdrew from Hollywood following that era, stepping away from the spotlight.
Retreat from Hollywood
In the 1990s, Duvall unexpectedly withdrew from Hollywood. As film offers began to decline, she decided to step away from the limelight. The changes in the industry were too much for her to handle. Coupled with personal challenges she felt the need to retreat from her bustling career.
Shelley Duvall in Los Angeles, California on July 28, 1993 | Source: Getty Images
In the early ’90s, Duvall returned to Texas to be closer to her family, especially after her brother was diagnosed with spinal cancer. This move marked the beginning of her nearly 20-year absence from Hollywood.
Due to the impact she had made with her unique talent, it was natural for people to wonder what had happened to her. Rumors and speculations about her mental well-being began to circulate, fueled by her sudden disappearance from the public eye.
Shelley Duvall in 1994 | Source: Getty Images
Another factor that influenced Duvall’s retreat was her disillusionment with the industry. Despite working with prominent figures and delivering remarkable performances, she often found the financial rewards meager.
She once remarked that there was a belief that women would marry and rely on their husbands for support, but this was not always the case for everyone.
While Duvall stepped away from Hollywood, she found solace and a new sense of community in a small Texas town, where she lived a peaceful life.
Shelley Duvall attends the 17th Annual Cable ACE Awards on December 2, 1995 | Source: Getty Images
Life in Small-Town Texas
For two decades, Duvall quietly resided in a small, charming town in the Texas Hill Country. Known for her career in Hollywood, Duvall became a familiar face at local establishments. Many people in the community warmly recognized her.
She embraced a simple and peaceful life and easily blended into her new surroundings. In her small town, Duvall was seen as an eccentric yet endearing figure. She would often break into song during conversations and carried around old headshots and cast photographs in her car.
Her voice, once melodious and recognizable had become rougher over the years due to her inclination toward smoking. The locals in her community were fond of her and protective of her privacy.
To them, she was more of a quirky aunt than a faded movie star. They watched out for her and ensured she was not disturbed by outsiders. They became more protective of her after the controversial 2016 Dr. Phil episode that raised concerns about her mental health.
One of the most significant friendships Duvall formed in her later years was with Ryan Obermeyer, a local artist from nearby Austin. Obermeyer, who had grown up watching Duvall’s “Faerie Tale Theatre,” reached out to her in 2018 out of concern for her well-being.
He left a postcard with his phone number at her home, and Duvall soon contacted him, expressing her desire for a visit. Their initial meeting led to regular lunches and an unlikely friendship.
Obermeyer went above and beyond to reconnect Duvall with cherished memories and old friends. He repurchased her personal letters that had been sold on eBay. Additionally, he organized a surprise FaceTime call with Paul Reubens, who had played Pinocchio on “Faerie Tale Theatre,” for her 70th birthday.
To celebrate the milestone, Obermeyer threw a party at her favorite restaurant, Red Lobster. He invited a select group of her most devoted fans. The event featured a delightful “Faerie Tale” themed cake and even attracted attendees from as far away as Australia.
Duvall treasured these gestures and the connection to her past. Obermeyer’s kindness and thoughtfulness ensured that Duvall remained connected to her roots and beloved memories. He was able to provide her with a sense of belonging and continuity.
Romantic Relationships
In addition to her close friendships, Duvall had a series of notable relationships. In 1970, she married Sampson, but their marriage ended in divorce in 1974. Duvall later had high-profile relationships with musicians Paul Simon and Ringo Starr. However, she was often reluctant to discuss her personal life in interviews.
Shelley Duvall at the Los Angeles Children’s Museum in Los Angeles, California, on September 29, 1991 | Source: Getty Images
In 1989, Duvall began a relationship with Dan Gilroy, a musician and former member of Madonna’s early band, “Breakfast Club.” The couple met while working on the Disney Channel production “Mother Goose Rock ‘n’ Rhyme.” Duvall was one of the producers.
Shelley Duvall attends the Cable Ace Awards in Hollywood, California, in 1989 | Source: Getty Images
“Mother Goose Rock ‘n’ Rhyme” featured an illustrious cast, including her former beau, Paul Simon. Their connection on set blossomed into a romance that endured for over three decades. Duvall and Gilroy shared a deep bond and a quiet life in Texas.
Shelley Duvall attends a party with her partner, Dan Gilroy, on October 23, 1989 | Source: Getty Images
Despite their low-key approach to their relationship, Duvall occasionally reflected on their long-lasting connection in interviews. The couple enjoyed the simplicity and stillness of their rural life, finding comfort in each other’s company away from the public eye.
Final Years and Return to Acting
In her final years, Duvall embraced a peaceful and quiet life in the Texas Hill Country. She found solace in her routines and the support of her community and partner, Gilroy.
