November 18th 2023.
It is with deep sadness that we must report that Suzanne Shepherd, an American actress known for her roles in Goodfellas and The Sopranos, has passed away at the age of 89. Shepherd was one of 27 actors to have starred in both hit projects.
Shepherd was an iconic actress, having a glittering, decades-long career in showbiz. She was known for her roles in films like Martin Scorsese's Goodfellas and the HBO drama show The Sopranos. In Goodfellas, she played the mother of Karen Hill, and in The Sopranos, she famously played Mary DeAngelis.
Following the sad news of her death, Shepherd's fans and former co-stars have paid tribute. Ray Abruzzo, a fellow Sopranos actor, posted an emotional statement on Instagram saying: “Sad to hear of the passing of Suzanne Shepherd. A force of nature. Actress, teacher. Played Carmella’s mother on Sopranos and Karen’s mother in Goodfellas.”
Shepherd's career in television and film spanned over 35 years, beginning when she studied acting with Sanford Meisner. She went on to become the first woman to teach Meisner's program of acting study. She was also a founding member of the Compass Players in the early 1960s, alongside Alan Alda and Alan Arkin.
Her first big role was playing Aunt Tweedy in Mystic Pizza in 1988. She also guest-starred in the likes of Law & Order and Blue Bloods, and played the assistant school principal in Uncle Buck. In 2000, she had a supporting role in Requiem for a Dream.
Shepherd is survived by her daughter Kate, son-in-law Miles, and daughter-in-law Joyce. Her cause of death is yet to be confirmed. Fans have taken to social media to remember her fondly, with one person writing: “Excellent actress who made Goodfellas and The Sopranos so special. Thank you, Suzanne Shepherd. RIP.” Another said: “Oh man she was amazing in both Goodfellas and The Sopranos. What an actress.”
We send our condolences to Suzanne Shepherd's family and friends. May she rest in peace.
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