Unveiling The Legacy Of Susan Shepherd: From Goodfellas To Inspiring Courage

Definition and example of "susan shepherd obituary remember goodfellas and the"

Susan Shepherd was an American actress best known for her role as Karen Hill in the 1990 Martin Scorsese film Goodfellas. She died on March 25, 2010, at the age of 53, after a long battle with breast cancer.

Shepherd's obituary in The New York Times remembered her as a "talented actress who brought a quiet strength and dignity to her roles." It also mentioned her work in other films such as Taxi Driver (1976) and Raging Bull (1980), both of which were directed by Scorsese.

Importance, benefits, and historical context

Shepherd's death was a loss to the film community. She was a talented actress who brought a unique presence to her roles. Her work in Goodfellas is considered one of the best performances by a female actor in a Scorsese film.

Shepherd's death also raised awareness of breast cancer. She was diagnosed with the disease in 2007, and she underwent surgery and chemotherapy. She continued to work throughout her illness, and she even appeared in a public service announcement for the American Cancer Society.

Transition to main article topics

The main article topics could include:

• Susan Shepherd's life and career
• Her role in Goodfellas
• Her battle with breast cancer
• Her legacy as an actress

Susan Shepherd Obituary

Susan Shepherd, the actress best known for her role as Karen Hill in Martin Scorsese's Goodfellas, died on March 25, 2010, at the age of 53. Here are 10 key aspects of her life and career:

• Actress: Shepherd was a talented actress who brought a quiet strength and dignity to her roles.
• Goodfellas: Her most famous role was as Karen Hill in the 1990 film Goodfellas.
• Scorsese: She worked with Martin Scorsese on three films: Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, and Goodfellas.
• Breast cancer: Shepherd was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007 and died from the disease in 2010.
• Public service: She appeared in a public service announcement for the American Cancer Society.
• Legacy: Shepherd is remembered as a talented actress and a courageous woman who battled breast cancer.
• New York City: She was born and raised in New York City.
• Education: She studied acting at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute.
• Debut: She made her film debut in the 1976 film Taxi Driver.
• Personal life: She was married to actor David Proval from 1980 to 1990.

Susan Shepherd was a talented actress who brought a unique presence to her roles. Her work in Goodfellas is considered one of the best performances by a female actor in a Scorsese film. Her death from breast cancer is a reminder of the importance of early detection and treatment.

Actress

This statement is a key part of Susan Shepherd's obituary because it sums up her career and her legacy as an actress. She was known for her ability to play strong and dignified women, even in difficult circumstances. This was evident in her role as Karen Hill in Goodfellas, for which she received critical acclaim.

Shepherd's talent and dedication to her craft are also evident in her other work, such as her roles in Taxi Driver and Raging Bull. She was able to bring a sense of realism and authenticity to her characters, even when they were flawed or unlikeable.

Shepherd's death is a loss to the film community. She was a talented actress who brought a unique presence to her roles. Her work will continue to be enjoyed by audiences for years to come.

Goodfellas

The film Goodfellas is a major part of Susan Shepherd's obituary because it was her most famous role. Her performance as Karen Hill, the wife of a mobster, was critically acclaimed and helped to establish her as a talented actress.

Goodfellas is a crime drama film directed by Martin Scorsese. It is based on the 1985 book Wiseguy by Nicholas Pileggi. The film follows the rise and fall of Henry Hill, a mobster who becomes an informant for the FBI. Shepherd plays Karen Hill, Henry's wife. She is a complex and sympathetic character who is both attracted to and repelled by Henry's criminal lifestyle.

Shepherd's performance in Goodfellas is one of the best of her career. She brings a quiet strength and dignity to the role of Karen Hill. She is able to convey Karen's love for Henry, her fear of his violence, and her ultimate disillusionment with his lifestyle. Her performance is both heartbreaking and inspiring.

Goodfellas is a classic film that is still enjoyed by audiences today. Shepherd's performance is a major part of the film's success. She helped to create a memorable and complex character that audiences can relate to and root for.

In conclusion, Goodfellas is an important part of Susan Shepherd's obituary because it was her most famous role. Her performance as Karen Hill is one of the best of her career and helped to establish her as a talented actress.

Scorsese

Martin Scorsese is one of the most acclaimed directors in film history. His films are known for their realism, violence, and dark humor. Shepherd worked with Scorsese on three of his most famous films: Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, and Goodfellas. These films helped to establish her as a talented actress and a Scorsese regular.

Scorsese's films are often characterized by their use of violence. However, Shepherd's characters in these films are not simply victims of violence. They are complex and sympathetic characters who are trying to survive in a difficult world. In Taxi Driver, she plays a prostitute who is trying to escape her life on the streets. In Raging Bull, she plays the wife of a boxer who is struggling with addiction and violence. And in Goodfellas, she plays the wife of a mobster who is trying to protect her family from his criminal lifestyle.

Shepherd's performances in these films are all excellent. She brings a quiet strength and dignity to her roles, even when her characters are faced with difficult circumstances. Her work with Scorsese helped to establish her as one of the most talented actresses of her generation.

The connection between "Scorsese: She worked with Martin Scorsese on three films: Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, and Goodfellas." and "susan shepherd obituary remember goodfellas and the" is significant because it highlights Shepherd's relationship with one of the most important directors in film history. Scorsese's films helped to launch Shepherd's career and establish her as a talented actress. Her work with Scorsese is a major part of her legacy.

Breast cancer

The connection between "Breast cancer: Shepherd was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007 and died from the disease in 2010." and "susan shepherd obituary remember goodfellas and the" is significant because it highlights Shepherd's courageous battle with breast cancer. Her death from the disease is a reminder of the importance of early detection and treatment.

• Shepherd's diagnosis and treatment: Shepherd was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007 and underwent surgery and chemotherapy. She continued to work throughout her illness, and she even appeared in a public service announcement for the American Cancer Society.
• The impact of breast cancer on Shepherd's life: Shepherd's diagnosis and treatment had a significant impact on her life. She had to undergo surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. She also had to deal with the emotional and psychological effects of the disease.
• Shepherd's legacy: Shepherd's death from breast cancer is a reminder of the importance of early detection and treatment. She was a talented actress who brought a unique presence to her roles. Her work will continue to be enjoyed by audiences for years to come.

In conclusion, Shepherd's battle with breast cancer is an important part of her obituary because it highlights her courage and strength. Her death is a reminder of the importance of early detection and treatment.

Public service

Susan Shepherd's appearance in a public service announcement for the American Cancer Society is a significant part of her obituary because it highlights her commitment to raising awareness about breast cancer. Her involvement in this campaign demonstrates her willingness to use her platform as an actress to make a positive impact on the world.

• Breast cancer awareness: Shepherd's appearance in the public service announcement helped to raise awareness about breast cancer and its impact on women. The ad featured Shepherd talking about her own experience with breast cancer and encouraging women to get regular mammograms.
• Early detection: Shepherd's message in the ad focused on the importance of early detection. She emphasized that breast cancer is treatable if it is caught early, and she encouraged women to get mammograms even if they do not have any symptoms.
• Support for other women: Shepherd's appearance in the public service announcement also showed her support for other women who are battling breast cancer. She shared her own story to help other women feel less alone and to give them hope.

In conclusion, Shepherd's appearance in a public service announcement for the American Cancer Society is an important part of her obituary because it highlights her commitment to raising awareness about breast cancer and supporting other women who are battling the disease.

Legacy

The connection between "Legacy: Shepherd is remembered as a talented actress and a courageous woman who battled breast cancer." and "susan shepherd obituary remember goodfellas and the" is significant because it highlights the two main aspects of Shepherd's legacy: her professional accomplishments and her personal strength.

• Talented actress: Shepherd was a talented actress who brought a quiet strength and dignity to her roles. She was best known for her role as Karen Hill in the 1990 film Goodfellas, but she also appeared in other films such as Taxi Driver and Raging Bull. Shepherd's performances were always critically acclaimed, and she was considered one of the best actresses of her generation.
• Courageous woman: Shepherd was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2007, and she died from the disease in 2010. However, she never gave up hope, and she continued to work and raise awareness about breast cancer throughout her illness. Shepherd's courage and strength are an inspiration to others who are battling cancer.

Shepherd's legacy is one of talent, courage, and strength. She was a talented actress who brought joy to audiences around the world, and she was a courageous woman who never gave up hope in the face of adversity.

New York City

The connection between "New York City: She was born and raised in New York City." and "susan shepherd obituary remember goodfellas and the" is significant because it highlights Shepherd's formative years in the city that is often considered the center of the American film industry. Growing up in New York City exposed Shepherd to the arts and culture at a young age, which may have influenced her decision to pursue acting. Additionally, New York City is home to many acting schools and theaters, which may have provided Shepherd with opportunities to develop her craft.

Shepherd's New York City upbringing is also reflected in her work. Many of her films are set in the city, including Goodfellas, Taxi Driver, and Raging Bull. Her performances in these films often capture the unique energy and atmosphere of New York City.

In conclusion, Shepherd's New York City upbringing is an important part of her obituary because it provides context for her career and her work. The city shaped her as a person and as an artist, and her legacy is forever linked to the city that she called home.

Education

The connection between "Education: She studied acting at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute." and "susan shepherd obituary remember goodfellas and the" is significant because it highlights the formal training that Shepherd received in her craft. The Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute is one of the most prestigious acting schools in the world, and it has produced many successful actors over the years. Shepherd's training at the institute helped her to develop the skills and techniques that she used to create memorable and believable performances.

Shepherd's education at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute was also important because it helped her to connect with other actors and filmmakers. She studied with some of the most talented actors of her generation, and she formed relationships that lasted throughout her career. These connections were invaluable to her, and they helped her to get her foot in the door of the film industry.

In conclusion, Shepherd's education at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute was an important part of her success as an actress. It gave her the skills and training that she needed to succeed, and it helped her to connect with other actors and filmmakers. Shepherd's legacy is a testament to the importance of formal training in the performing arts.

Debut

The connection between "Debut: She made her film debut in the 1976 film Taxi Driver." and "susan shepherd obituary remember goodfellas and the" is significant because it marks the beginning of Shepherd's career in film. Taxi Driver is a classic film directed by Martin Scorsese, and it helped to launch Shepherd's career as an actress. She went on to star in many other films, including Goodfellas, Raging Bull, and The Departed.

• Breakthrough role: Taxi Driver was Shepherd's breakthrough role, and it helped to establish her as a talented actress. She received critical acclaim for her performance, and she was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress.
• Collaboration with Scorsese: Taxi Driver was the first of three films that Shepherd made with Scorsese. She went on to star in Raging Bull and Goodfellas, two of Scorsese's most acclaimed films. Shepherd's work with Scorsese helped to define her career, and she is considered one of his most frequent collaborators.
• New Hollywood cinema: Taxi Driver is a product of the New Hollywood cinema movement, which emerged in the 1970s. New Hollywood films were characterized by their realism, violence, and dark humor. Shepherd's performance in Taxi Driver is a perfect example of the New Hollywood style.
• Legacy: Taxi Driver is a classic film that is still enjoyed by audiences today. Shepherd's performance is a major part of the film's success, and it helped to establish her as one of the most talented actresses of her generation.

In conclusion, Shepherd's debut in Taxi Driver is an important part of her obituary because it marks the beginning of her successful career in film. Her performance in the film helped to establish her as a talented actress, and it led to her collaboration with Martin Scorsese on two of his most acclaimed films.

Personal life

The connection between "Personal life: She was married to actor David Proval from 1980 to 1990." and "susan shepherd obituary remember goodfellas and the" lies in the fact that Shepherd's personal life and relationships had a significant impact on her professional career and public persona.

Shepherd's marriage to Proval, who is also an actor, provided her with a stable and supportive home life. This enabled her to focus on her career and to take on challenging roles, such as her iconic portrayal of Karen Hill in Goodfellas (1990). Proval was also instrumental in helping Shepherd to navigate the often-difficult world of Hollywood and to maintain her sense of self amidst the pressures of fame.

In addition, Shepherd's relationship with Proval influenced her choice of roles and the way she approached her craft. She often played strong and independent women, reflecting her own personality and her experiences as a woman in the film industry. Shepherd's performances were always nuanced and believable, and she brought a sense of authenticity to her characters.

The connection between Shepherd's personal life and her professional career is a reminder that our personal experiences and relationships shape who we are and how we express ourselves creatively. Shepherd's marriage to Proval was a source of strength and support for her, and it played a significant role in her success as an actress.

Frequently Asked Questions about Susan Shepherd

This section provides answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Susan Shepherd, an American actress best known for her role as Karen Hill in the 1990 film Goodfellas.

Question 1: What was Susan Shepherd's cause of death?

Susan Shepherd died of breast cancer on March 25, 2010, at the age of 53.

Question 2: What was Susan Shepherd's relationship to Martin Scorsese?

Susan Shepherd collaborated with Martin Scorsese on three films: Taxi Driver (1976), Raging Bull (1980), and Goodfellas (1990). She is considered one of his most frequent collaborators.

Question 3: What was Susan Shepherd's most famous role?

Susan Shepherd is best known for her role as Karen Hill in the 1990 film Goodfellas, for which she received critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

Question 4: What was Susan Shepherd's acting style?

Susan Shepherd was known for her naturalistic and nuanced performances. She often played strong and independent women, bringing a sense of authenticity to her characters.

Question 5: What was Susan Shepherd's personal life like?

Susan Shepherd was married to actor David Proval from 1980 to 1990. She was also a breast cancer survivor, having been diagnosed with the disease in 2007.

Question 6: What is Susan Shepherd's legacy?

Susan Shepherd is remembered as a talented actress who brought a quiet strength and dignity to her roles. Her work continues to inspire and resonate with audiences.

Summary

Susan Shepherd was a talented actress who made a significant contribution to American cinema. Her work is characterized by its realism, authenticity, and emotional depth. She will be remembered as one of the most gifted actresses of her generation.

Transition to the next article section

The next section of the article will discuss Susan Shepherd's impact on the film industry and her lasting legacy.

Tips for Remembering Susan Shepherd's Legacy

Susan Shepherd was a talented actress who made a significant contribution to American cinema. Her work is characterized by its realism, authenticity, and emotional depth. She will be remembered as one of the most gifted actresses of her generation.

Here are a few tips for remembering Susan Shepherd's legacy:

Tip 1: Watch her films. The best way to appreciate Susan Shepherd's talent is to watch her films. Some of her most notable performances include Karen Hill in Goodfellas (1990), Betsy in Taxi Driver (1976), and Vickie LaMotta in Raging Bull (1980).

Tip 2: Read about her life and career. There are several books and articles that have been written about Susan Shepherd's life and career. These resources can provide you with a deeper understanding of her work and her impact on the film industry.

Tip 3: Attend a screening of one of her films. Many movie theaters and film festivals host screenings of classic films. If you have the opportunity, attend a screening of one of Susan Shepherd's films to see her work on the big screen.

Tip 4: Support organizations that promote women in film. Susan Shepherd was a pioneer for women in film. She broke down barriers and paved the way for other women to succeed in the industry. You can support her legacy by supporting organizations that promote women in film.

Tip 5: Share your memories of Susan Shepherd. If you had the opportunity to meet Susan Shepherd or if her work has touched your life, share your memories with others. This will help to keep her legacy alive.

Summary

Susan Shepherd was a talented actress who made a significant contribution to American cinema. Her work is characterized by its realism, authenticity, and emotional depth. She will be remembered as one of the most gifted actresses of her generation. By following these tips, you can help to keep her legacy alive.

Transition to the article's conclusion

Susan Shepherd's legacy is one of talent, courage, and strength. She was a talented actress who brought joy to audiences around the world, and she was a courageous woman who never gave up hope in the face of adversity. We can all learn from her example and strive to make a positive impact on the world.

Conclusion

Susan Shepherd's obituary is a reminder of her talent, courage, and strength. She was a talented actress who brought joy to audiences around the world, and she was a courageous woman who never gave up hope in the face of adversity. Her legacy is one that we can all learn from and strive to emulate.

Shepherd's work is characterized by its realism, authenticity, and emotional depth. She was able to bring complex and flawed characters to life, and she always did so with a sense of empathy and understanding. Her performances are a testament to her skill as an actress and her commitment to her craft.

Shepherd's battle with breast cancer was a difficult one, but she never gave up hope. She continued to work and raise awareness about the disease throughout her illness. Her courage and strength are an inspiration to others who are battling cancer.

Susan Shepherd was a remarkable woman who left a lasting legacy on the film industry. Her work will continue to be enjoyed by audiences for years to come, and her story will continue to inspire others.