- Actress Frances Sternhagen has passed on
- She was known for many memorable productions
- Her son confirmed the news to sources
The Tony-winning actress, adored by fans for her regal portrayals and motherly charm, has taken her final bow, leaving us Monday of natural causes in New Rochelle, N.Y. Her son, Tony Carlin, confirmed the heart-wrenching news to the 'New York Times'.
Frances, a treasure trove of talent, was known for her recurring role as the dignified grandmother of "Dr. Carter" on the hit series 'ER' and as Cliff’s mother on the beloved sitcom 'Cheers.'
Frances was truly one of a kind
Her Emmy-nominated performances were just the tip of the iceberg in a career that saw her shine alongside Sean Connery in the sci-fi classic 'Outland' and as the sheriff's wife in the chilling 'Misery.'
The silver screen sparkled brighter with her presence in films like 'Julie and Julia,' 'Starting Over,' and 'Doc Hollywood.' But it was her portrayal of "Bunny MacDougal" on 'Sex and the City' that earned her a 2002 Emmy nod, leaving audiences in stitches as she bolted from a room upon discovering her son in a compromising position.
From 2006-2012, Sternhagen delighted viewers as "Willie Rae Johnson" on 'The Closer,' and graced the screen in Rob Reiner’s 2014 feature 'And So It Goes.' Her early days on NBC’s 'Another World' as "Jane Overstreet" remain etched in our memories, showcasing her versatility and depth.
On Broadway, Sternhagen's name was synonymous with excellence. A seven-time Tony nominee, she clinched the award for Neil Simon’s 'The Doctor' and for the revival of 'The Heiress.' Her performances in 'Equus,' 'On Golden Pond,' and 'Morning’s at Seven' were nothing short of theatrical masterpieces.
Her star reached far and wide
Born in Washington, D.C., Frances Sternhagen was a Vassar College alumna who embraced acting with every fiber of her being. She believed in crafting her characters "from the outside in," a philosophy that helped her transition from theater to film with the guidance of legends like Burt Lancaster.
A teacher, a performer, and a Helen Hayes Tribute recipient, Sternhagen was also a proud member and executive committee member of the Theatre Hall of Fame. Her personal life was as rich as her professional one, married to actor Thomas Carlin until his death and survived by a loving family of six children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
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Rest in peace
"It is with great sadness that we share the news that our dear mother, actress Frances Sternhagen, died peacefully of natural causes in New Rochelle, NY, on November 27th, 2023 at the age of 93. She is survived by her 6 children, 9 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren. A celebration of her remarkable career and life is planned for mid January, near her 94th birthday. We continue to be inspired by her love and life," her family's statement said...
The curtains have closed, the lights have dimmed, but Frances Sternhagen’s legacy will forever illuminate the hearts of those who witnessed her incredible journey through acting. Rest in peace, dear Frances, your performances will continue to inspire generations to come.
