Suzanne Shepherd Passed Away, Who was Suzanne Shepherd? What Happened to Sopranos Star Suzanne Shepherd? How Did Suzanne Shepherd Die?
by Sangamithra | Updated Nov 20, 2023
Suzanne Shepherd Passed Away
Renowned actress Suzanne Shepherd, known for her roles in iconic films like "Goodfellas" and "The Sopranos," has passed away at the age of 89. The news was confirmed by her representative to Entertainment Weekly. Shepherd, born on October 31, 1934, began her career on stage and later transitioned to the big screen, making her mark in movies such as "Mystic Pizza," "Lolita," and "Requiem for a Dream."
Despite starting her Hollywood journey in her mid-50s, she accumulated over 40 screen credits and became a respected figure in the industry. Shepherd played memorable characters, including Aunt Tweedy in "Mystic Pizza" and Mary DeAngelis in "The Sopranos." In addition to acting, she directed theatrical productions and worked as an acting coach. She leaves behind a legacy celebrated by fans and colleagues alike.
Join us at Fresherslive to explore current news and trends presented in a clear and concise manner. Our goal is to keep you informed without any confusion, making your journey of staying updated a smooth one.
Who was Suzanne Shepherd?
Suzanne Shepherd, born Suzanne Stern on October 31, 1934, and passing away on November 17, 2023, was a prominent American actress and theater director. She became known for her contributions to both stage and screen throughout her career, which spanned from 1934 to 2023. Born in New York City, she began her journey in the entertainment industry and gained recognition for her roles in films like "Goodfellas" and "The Sopranos."
Shepherd was not only an accomplished actress but also a theater director, showcasing her diverse talents. Her dedication to the craft led her to study acting with Sanford Meisner, and she made history by becoming the first woman to teach Meisner's program of acting study. Suzanne Shepherd's legacy is marked by her significant impact on the world of acting and her pioneering role as an educator in the field.
Full Name
Suzanne "Honey" Shepherd (née Stern)
Date of Birth
October 31, 1934
Date of Death
November 17, 2023
Age at Death
89
Place of Birth
New York City, New York, U.S.
Occupation
Actress, Theater Director
Years Active
1934–2023
Notable Roles
Aunt Tweedy in "Mystic Pizza"
Mary DeAngelis in "The Sopranos"
Karen Hill's mother in "Goodfellas"
Various TV roles in "Law & Order," "Blue Bloods," etc.
Education
Studied acting with Sanford Meisner, and became the first woman to teach Meisner's program of acting study
Death Cause
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Survivors
Daughter: Kate Shepherd, Son-in-law: Miles McManus, Granddaughter: Isabelle Shepherd
Legacy
Co-founder of the Compass Players
Directed theatrical productions across the U.S.
Acting coach for over four decades
Extensive career in film and television
Suzanne Shepherd Career
Suzanne Shepherd, a founding member of the Compass Players in the early 1960s, had a notable career as an American actress. She co-founded the Compass Players alongside Alan Alda and Alan Arkin. Shepherd gained recognition for her diverse roles in film and television. She portrayed Aunt Tweedy in the film "Mystic Pizza," Karen's overbearing mother in the classic "Goodfellas," and Carmela Soprano's mother, Mary DeAngelis, in the HBO series "The Sopranos."
Her versatility extended to films like "Requiem for a Dream," where she played Mrs. Scarlini, and "A Dirty Shame," where she portrayed Big Ethel. Additionally, she took on roles in popular TV shows like "Uncle Buck" and the CBS police procedural drama "Blue Bloods," playing Lucille Abetemarco. Suzanne Shepherd's career was marked by her ability to bring memorable characters to life on both the big and small screens.
Suzanne Shepherd Age
Suzanne Shepherd was born on October 31, 1934, and she passed away on November 17, 2023, at the age of 89. Throughout her 89 years, Shepherd made significant contributions to the entertainment industry as an actress and theater director. Recognized for her roles in iconic films like "Goodfellas" and "The Sopranos," she also co-founded the Compass Players in the early 1960s alongside Alan Alda and Alan Arkin.
Her extensive career spanned over seven decades, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of acting and theater. Shepherd's influence and talent continued to shine until her passing in 2023.
What Happened to Sopranos Star Suzanne Shepherd?
Suzanne Shepherd, known for her roles in "The Sopranos" and "Goodfellas," passed away at 89. She died at her New York City home on November 17, 2023. Shepherd portrayed Mary DeAngelis in "The Sopranos" and Karen Hill's mother in "Goodfellas."
Her diverse career included roles in films like "Requiem for a Dream" and "A Dirty Shame." Shepherd, a founding member of the Compass Players, also directed in theaters and worked as an acting coach. Survived by her daughter, son-in-law, and granddaughter, she leaves behind a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry.
How Did Suzanne Shepherd Die?
Suzanne Shepherd, aged 89, passed away at her New York City home on Friday. According to a statement from her representative, the cause of death has not been determined yet. However, her daughter Kate Shepherd informed TMZ that Suzanne had been dealing with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
The actress, known for her roles in "The Sopranos" and "Goodfellas," left a significant mark on the entertainment industry. Her legacy will be remembered, and the details surrounding her passing indicate a battle with a respiratory condition.
Suzanne Shepherd Passed Away - FAQs
Suzanne Shepherd passed away at 89 due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Suzanne portrayed Aunt Tweedy in "Mystic Pizza," Mary DeAngelis in "The Sopranos," and Karen Hill's mother in "Goodfellas."
She began her career on stage and made her big-screen debut in the 1988 film "Mystic Pizza."
She co-founded the Compass Players and directed theatrical productions across the U.S., showcasing her versatility in the entertainment industry.
Yes, she played roles in Scorsese's "Goodfellas" and "The Irishman."