Penelope Milford, the Oscar-nominated actress known for her role in ‘Coming Home,’ has passed away at the age of 77. Milford, who was nominated for her supporting role as Vi Munson in Hal Ashby’s film, died on Tuesday, October 14, at an assisted living facility in Saugerties, N.Y. The exact cause of her death has not been disclosed to the public.
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Born in St. Louis, Missouri, on March 23, 1948, Penelope Milford gained recognition for her portrayal of Vi Munson, the sister of a troubled Vietnam War veteran, in the acclaimed movie ‘Coming Home.’ In the film, she starred alongside Jane Fonda and Robert Carradine, and her performance earned her an Oscar nomination. Alongside Fonda’s Best Actress nomination and Jon Voight’s Best Actor nomination, Milford’s talent shone brightly in the 1978 production.
Throughout her career, Milford took on various roles, showcasing her versatility as an actress. From playing Lorna Sinclair in ‘Valentino’ to portraying a high school guidance counselor in ‘Heathers,’ she displayed a range of abilities that captivated audiences. Her involvement in Norman Mailer’s ‘Maidstone’ marked the beginning of a career filled with memorable performances on both stage and screen.
In addition to her film work, Penelope Milford delved into theatre, starring in productions such as ‘Long Time Coming and a Long Time Gone’ alongside Richard Gere. Her Broadway debut in ‘Lenny’ and the Drama Desk award nomination for her role in the musical ‘Shenandoah’ further cemented her reputation as a talented and dedicated performer. Milford also shared her skills by teaching acting in Chicago and Minneapolis, leaving a lasting impact on aspiring actors.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Milford had a personal connection to the arts, finding joy in singing with the Bard Symphonic Chorus and engaging with local theatre communities. Despite facing personal tragedies, including the loss of her younger brother Richard Kim Milford at a young age, she continued to pursue her passion for acting with unwavering determination.
Penelope Milford’s legacy extends beyond her on-screen achievements, as she leaves behind a profound impact on those who had the pleasure of witnessing her talent. Survived by her siblings Douglas Milford and Candace Saint, she will be remembered not only for her contributions to the entertainment industry but also for her dedication to the craft of acting and her enduring spirit.
The entertainment world mourns the loss of a gifted artist whose performances left a mark on cinema and theatre. Penelope Milford’s memory will live on through her work, inspiring future generations of actors and storytellers to pursue their dreams with the same passion and commitment that she embodied throughout her career.