Remembering Penelope Milford: Oscar-Nominated Actress Passes Away at 79
Oscar-Nominated Actress Penelope Milford Passes Away at 75
Oscar-nominated actress Penelope Milford, best known for her poignant role in the 1978 film Coming Home, has died at the age of 75. Her brother, Doug Milford, confirmed the heartbreaking news, though the cause of death has not been disclosed. Penelope passed away in Saugerties, New York, leaving behind a legacy that spanned decades in film and theater.
Milford garnered critical acclaim for her performance as Vi Munson in Coming Home, earning a nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the 51st Academy Awards. The film, which also starred Jon Voight and Jane Fonda, became a cultural touchstone of the late 1970s, receiving multiple accolades, including Best Original Screenplay.
Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Penelope’s career took off in the 1970s, with notable performances in Norman Mailer’s Maidstone and Ken Russell’s Valentino. Her Broadway credits included a memorable stint alongside Richard Gere in Richard Farina: Long Time Coming and a Long Time Gone.
Following her success in film, Penelope transitioned to television, earning praise for her roles in the Emmy-winning The Oldest Living Graduate and the impactful TV film The Burning Bed, which addressed the serious issue of marital abuse.
After stepping away from Hollywood, Penelope dedicated herself to teaching, sharing her wealth of knowledge with aspiring actors at film schools in Chicago and Minneapolis. In 2003, she moved to Saugerties, where she became actively involved in the local community, restoring historic properties and participating in local theater productions.
Penelope is survived by her sister, Candace Saint, and her brother, Doug Milford. The entertainment industry mourns the loss of a talented actress whose contributions to film and theater will not be forgotten.
As tributes pour in from fans and colleagues alike, Penelope Milford’s legacy as a trailblazer in the arts continues to inspire future generations.
