Legendary actress and comedian Cloris Leachman dies at 94

Powerhouse performer Cloris Leachman has passed away at the age of 94. Let’s take a moment to remember her incredible life and career.

This week, the entertainment industry lost a true legend. It is with a heavy heart that I report the death of actress and comedian Cloris Leachman, who passed away on January 27 at the age of 94.

Leachman’s manager Juliet Green confirmed the news with the following statement:

"It’s been my privilege to work with Cloris Leachman, one of the most fearless actresses of our time. There was no one like Cloris. With a single look she had the ability to break your heart or make you laugh till the tears ran down your face. You never knew what Cloris was going to say or do and that unpredictable quality was part of her unparalleled magic."

Cloris Leachman was born on April 30, 1926, in Des Moines, Iowa, where she spent her early life. She attended Theodore Roosevelt High School and Northwestern University. The renowned performer received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on September 22, 1980; you can find it at 6435 Hollywood Boulevard. She is survived by four of her five children, as well as her grandchildren and one great-grandson.

Cloris Leachman had an incomparable career that spanned over seven decades. Leachman is widely known for her portrayal of Phyllis on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, a role that landed her a spin-off series. She also appeared in many popular and notable films, including Young Frankenstein, Sky High, Inglourious Basterds, The Last Picture Show, You Again, Alex & Emma, The Beverly Hillbillies and Daisy Miller.

Cloris also leant her distinctive voice to several animated projects, such as The Croods, Phineas and Ferb, Family Guy, Bob’s Burgers, Ponyo and The Iron Giant; she even voiced Old Marceline in Adventure Time! She recently appeared as Zorya Vechernyaya in the television adaptation of American Gods.

Along with actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Leachman is the most decorated actress in Emmy Award history. She’s also the recipient of an Academy Award, a British Academy Film Award, a Golden Globe Award and a Daytime Emmy Award.

To everyone who Cloris Leachman made laugh, I hope you take a few moments to appreciate her talent, warmth and bravery in her craft today. Rest in peace, Cloris Leachman! We extend our deepest condolences to her family, loved ones, and fans. Her family asks that anyone who wishes to donate on Cloris’ name can give to PETA or Last Chance for Animals, as she was a longtime champion of animal’s rights.

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