Valerie Perrine, best known for her role in the classic Superman films, has died at the age of 82.
The actress passed away on Monday at her home in Los Angeles, according to her close friend, filmmaker Stacey Souther. The exact cause of death has not been disclosed, but she had reportedly been battling Parkinson’s disease and had been bedridden for the past decade.
Perrine gained widespread recognition for portraying Eve Teschmacher, the loyal assistant and love interest to villain Lex Luthor, in both Superman (1978) and Superman II. The role saw her star alongside acclaimed actor Gene Hackman, who played Lex Luthor in the films.
According to reports, Perrine spent her final day watching her old movies, and the death of Hackman last year deeply affected her, as the two remained close friends following their collaboration on the Superman franchise.
Before her superhero fame, Perrine delivered a standout performance in the 1974 film Lenny, earning critical acclaim. Her role won her the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival, the BAFTA Award for Most Promising Newcomer, and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
Over the course of her career, Perrine appeared in numerous films and television series, including What Women Want and popular TV shows such as ER, Walker, Texas Ranger, and The Practice.
Family members and loved ones have launched a fundraising campaign to support funeral arrangements, noting that Perrine wished to be laid to rest at Forest Lawn Memorial Park.
Her passing marks the loss of a celebrated actress whose performances left a lasting mark on Hollywood.
