Sally Kirkland, award-winning 'Anna' actress, enters hospice amid dementia

Sally Kirkland, the Oscar-nominated actress known for her unforgettable role in Anna, is now in hospice care as she battles dementia.

Her representative, Michael Greene, confirmed to TMZ on Sunday, November 9 that the 84-year-old actress is being cared for in Palm Springs, with her close friend and former student, Cody Galloway, by her side.

The heartbreaking update follows years of health struggles for the Golden Globe winner.

In 2024, a GoFundMe was launched to help cover her mounting medical bills after she suffered multiple fractures — including her neck, wrist, and hip — and later developed two life-threatening infections. Despite treatment, her health has continued to decline.

Last month, her GoFundMe organisers shared that Kirkland had “a fall in the shower, when she was left unattended,” sustaining further injuries to her ribs and foot. “Sally is now receiving 24/7 care in a specialized facility,” the message read, adding that fundraising efforts were ongoing to help pay for her care.

On Friday, a new post announced that Kirkland had transitioned to hospice. “Thank you for all your love and support. Sally is grateful for your kindness and love. Sally is on hospice now and is resting comfortably. Please hold and send the light for Sally,” the statement said.

Sally Kirkland Movies: ‘Anna,’ ‘Bruce Almighty,’ and more

A fixture of Andy Warhol’s Factory circle and a trailblazer of independent film, Kirkland has appeared in more than 200 films, including JFK, Charlie’s Angels, and Bruce Almighty. 

In Jim Carrey and Morgan Freeman’s 2003 film, Kirkland played the diner waitress Anita Mann who serves Carrey’s character the tomato soup that he parts like Moses and the Red Sea.

Her 1987 performance in Anna earned her an Oscar nomination and a Golden Globe win, cementing her legacy as one of Hollywood’s greats.