Beloved Actress Sally Kirkland in Hospice as Friends Share Health Update
American actress Sally Kirkland has a career spanning over six decades, from bold New York stage work to mainstream Hollywood films. Known for her fearless character choices and powerful screen presence, she earned an Academy Award nomination and won a Golden Globe for her lead role in Anna (1987). Today, however, she faces profound health challenges. At age 84, Kirkland has entered hospice care in Palm Springs, California. Here’s what to know about the beloved actress’s health.
Sally Kirkland, 84, has been in hospice following a dementia diagnosis over the past year
Sally Kirkland, 84, is an Oscar-nominated, Golden Globe–winning American actress. Her fearless, scene-stealing work made her a distinctive presence in film and television for more than six decades. Best known for her lauded lead performance in the 1987 indie drama Anna, which earned her the Golden Globe, the Independent Spirit Award, and an Academy Award nomination, Kirkland’s resume ranges from early avant-garde stages and Andy Warhol’s Factory to supporting turns in mainstream films like JFK and Bruce Almighty. Her advocacy work, including founding the Kirkland Institute for Implant Survival Syndrome, teaching, and longtime visibility in independent cinema, has helped solidify her reputation as an influential Hollywood star.
Today, Kirkland is receiving hospice care in Palm Springs after a difficult year of health setbacks, according to TMZ. She was diagnosed with dementia in 2024 and has endured a series of serious injuries and life-threatening infections this past year. Friends set up a GoFundMe to help cover urgent medical costs.
“This past year, Sally fractured her four bones in her neck, right wrist, and her left hip,” the GoFundMe reads. “While recovering, she developed two separate life-threatening infections. The combination of these injuries and infections have required extensive hospitalizations and rehab beyond the 100 days insurance will cover.”
“As the days pass, lack of proper care greatly diminishes Sally’s chance of a full recovery,” it continues. “However, with the right medical support, we know she has a strong chance of overcoming this setback and returning to the work she loves.”
The actress’s GoFundMe states she doesn’t have a ‘life partner’ or children to help her
Sally Kirkland’s GoFundMe mentions her personal life.
“For those of us putting together this campaign, Sally has been more than just a friend — she has been a maternal figure, offering encouragement, wisdom, and love when it was needed most,” the GoFundMe states. “For those who know Sally personally, she has been a limitless source of generosity, kindness, and unwavering spirit. And while she has meant so much to so many around her, she has never had the luxury of a life partner or children to lean on in difficult times. But she has always prioritized being there for others, given everything she has to her craft, her church, her friends, and her community.”
Kirkland was married to Michael R. Jarrett from 1974 until their divorce in 1975. According to BollywoodShaadis, she later married Mark Hebert in 1985. That marriage also ended in divorce. She has no biological children.
Sally Kirkland is reportedly ‘grateful’ for the kindness she’s received
The GoFundMe organized by Sally Kirkland’s friends reports on Kirkland’s mental state. As of the time of this article’s publication, the GoFundMe has nearly reached its goal of $65,000 with over $60,000 accrued.
“Thank you for all your love and support. Sally is grateful for your kindness and love,” the organizers posted on Nov. 7, 2025. “Sally is on hospice now and is resting comfortably. Please hold and send the light for Sally.”
