This 91-Year-Old Actress Achieved the Rare Triple Crown of Acting and Survived Years of Terror from Her sᴄʜɪᴢᴏᴘʜʀᴇɴɪᴄ Husband

At 91 years old, this actress continues to break down barriers in an industry known for its transient appreciation of brilliance as it ages. Her career spans decades and includes critically praised performances in film, television, and theater.

She began her career as a showgirl and model before transitioning to television and film. She rose to prominence in the 1970s with groundbreaking parts that highlighted her beauty, ability, and dedication to her craft.

But as her star increased, her personal life unraveled. She was married to Neil Burstyn and underwent years of anxiety and suffering as his mental il:lness escalated into vi:olence.

From a Humble Start to Hollywood Royalty

Before her Broadway debut, she worked as a model and nightclub dancer in the 1950s. Her switch to television and movies in the 1960s signaled the beginning of a successful career.

By 1971, she had received global attention for a prominent performance that earned her critical acclaim and several significant award nominations. Her performances in films such as “The Exorcist” and “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore” cemented her status as one of the most gifted actors of her generation.

The actress attends the 1975 Tony Awards in April 1975 | Source: Getty Images

Her role in the latter earned her an Academy Award, and she became one of just 14 actresses in history to skip the ceremony to accept the award. Later, she became one of just 17 women to attain the Triple Crown of Acting by receiving an Emmy, a Tony, and an Oscar—a rare feat in the industry.

The Nightmare Behind Closed Doors

Following two failed marriages, the actress fell in love with Neil Burstyn, an actor. Neil was charming, talented, and unconventional, which pulled her in. However, as their relationship progressed, Neil began to exhibit symptoms of serious mental illness, ultimately being diagnosed with schizophrenia and psychosis.

He left her just as her career began to take off in the 1970s. During that decade, she rose to become one of Hollywood’s most recognized actresses, receiving five Academy Award nominations and winning one. Despite their breakup, Neil refused to let her go.

One of the most terrifying occurrences was when he broke into her home and assaulted her. When she reported the event to the police, she was received with apathy. Neil’s mental state deteriorated, and he continued to stalk her at work.

His presence tormented her during her Broadway performances in “Same Time, Next Year,” where he once screamed out her name from the audience, frightening both her and her co-star, Charles Grodin. She revealed her constant terror of Neil, worrying that he may k.i.l.l her.

Neil committed sui:cide in 1978, bringing an end to their turbulent relationship.

Determined to regain her life, she embraced solitude as a place to contemplate and reestablish her sense of identity.

Finding Healing Through Solitude

Determined to reclaim her life, the actress sought isolation, utilizing it to contemplate and reestablish her sense of self. For more than two decades, she avoided new relationships, instead focusing on therapy, meditation, and self-exploration.

Her creative endeavors are not limited to performing. She continues to push herself artistically, whether by publishing a collection of her best poetry or teaching the next generation of theatre professionals.