Valerie Perrine, the former Las Vegas showgirl who rose to fame with an Oscar-nominated performance in “Lenny” and later became a fan favorite in the “Superman” films, has passed away.
The news was shared by her close friend and longtime companion, Stacey Souther.
The Hollywood Reporter reported that Perrine, 82, died at her home in Beverly Hills. She had been living with Parkinson’s disease since 2015, a condition that gradually affected her mobility and her ability to eat and speak.
Loved Ones Remember Her Strength & Spirit
GettyHer friend Stacey Souther announced her death in a heartfelt post on Facebook, sharing the news with those who had followed her journey.
“It is with deep sadness that I share the heartbreaking news that Valerie has passed away. She faced Parkinson’s disease with incredible courage and compassion, never once complaining. She was a true inspiration who lived life to the fullest—and what a magnificent life it was. The world feels less beautiful without her in it. I love you, Valerie. I’ll see you on the other side. ❤️”
Souther also asked for support in honoring her final wish, writing:
“Please consider donating, sharing, and helping spread the word for her funeral GoFundMe. Her final wish is to be laid to rest at Forest Lawn Cemetery, but after more than 15 years of fighting Parkinson’s, her finances are exhausted. Let’s come together to make her last wish a reality—she truly deserves it.”
A GoFundMe page that had been created to support her medical care will now help cover burial costs.
From Las Vegas Showgirl to Hollywood Success
Perrine built a career defined by versatility, moving seamlessly between dramatic and comedic roles.
She received widespread acclaim for her performance in “Lenny” (1974), where she played Honey, the wife of comedian Lenny Bruce.
The role earned her an Academy Award nomination and brought her international recognition.
She later appeared in films including “The Last American Hero” (1973) with Jeff Bridges and “The Electric Horseman” (1979) alongside Robert Redford. Her later credits included “The Border” (1982) and “What Women Want” (2000).
On television, she continued to take on guest roles before gradually stepping away in the early 2000s as her health declined.
A Life Marked by Resilience & Lasting Legacy
In addition to Parkinson’s, Perrine had lived with essential tremors for many years and pursued several treatments, including brain surgery, in an effort to manage her symptoms.
As per a report, in 2017, she underwent dental surgery after medication weakened her teeth. The procedure was supported by the nonprofit Smile Fairies.
Despite these challenges, Perrine remained known for her resilience and warm spirit.
Over the years, she was romantically linked to several well-known figures, including Jeff Bridges, Elliott Gould, and Dodi Fayed, though she never married or had children.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, her brother, Ken Perrine, shared a tribute, saying, “I am devastated by the loss of my amazing sister Valerie this morning.”
He added, “She lived an extraordinary life that most of us can only dream of. She will be missed by all who knew her and her loving fans. She fought till the end and never gave up.”
As per her GoFundMe page, her final wish was to be laid to rest at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in the Hollywood Hills.
Her legacy lives on through the performances she brought to life and the strength she showed throughout her journey.
RIP dear lady. ou will be remembered always.
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