Actress Shelley Duvall in the movie, 'The Forest Hills'. Photo: Handout
Shelley Duvall, screen diva of the 1970s and 1980s, has reemerged in a horror role that could rival her star turn in The Shining.
Her return came just as suddenly as her retirement in 2002, receiving little explanation to date.
“It’s the longest sabbatical I ever took,” she told People in an interview published on Feb 22. “But it was for really important reasons – to get in touch with my family again.”
Her split with Hollywood began as the movie offers began tapering off in the 1990s – which was also around the time her brother was diagnosed with spinal cancer – the acclaimed actress said. She moved back to her native Texas.
In 2016, she filmed a controversial interview with Dr. Phil that was widely condemned by everyone from journalist Ronan Farrow to weatherman Al Roker. That and her prolonged absence from the public eye fuelled speculation that she was suffering from mental health problems.
The big sister to three brothers was happy enjoying her legacy, but welcomed being bitten again with the acting bug.
“Shelley’s a Hollywood icon,” said Scott Goldberg, the writer, producer and director who reached out to Duvall last year. “I’m happy that she has the opportunity to show that she still has the talent.”
Horror indie flick The Forest Hills will premiere in the US next month at director Kevin Smith’s Smodcastle Cinemas in Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey.
“Acting again – it’s so much fun,” Duvall told People. “It enriches your life.”
This may not be the last we see of her.
“I know it’s been a long time,” Duvall told Entertainment Tonight in December. “But it’s been great. It really has, it feels good. Makes me want to do more acting.” –New York Daily News/Tribune News Service
Shelley Duvall n the 1980 film 'The Shining'. Photo: Handout
