Suzanne Shepherd, Veteran of ‘The Sopranos’ and ‘Goodfellas,’ Passes Away at 89
In some sad news, the talented actor Suzanne Shepherd, renowned for her roles in iconic shows like “The Sopranos” and classic films like “Goodfellas,” left the stage of life at the age of 89. Her agent confirmed the passing, marking the end of a remarkable career that spanned decades.
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A Stint in Mob Drama and More
Suzanne gracefully portrayed Mary DeAngelis, the formidable mother of Carmela Soprano in HBO’s crime drama series “The Sopranos.” Not just limited to mob drama, she also depicted the motherly figure of Karen Hill in the 1990 classic “Goodfellas.” Beyond these, she added her flair to various films, including “Jacob’s Ladder,” “Trees Lounge,” “Lolita,” and “Requiem for a Dream,” to name a few.
From Romcoms to Scorsese
Born on Oct. 31, 1934, Suzanne stepped into the world of acting with the 1988 romcom “Mystic Pizza,” sharing the screen with Julia Roberts. Her journey continued with films like “Working Girl,” “Uncle Buck,” and “Second Sight” before making a mark in Martin Scorsese’s “Goodfellas.”
TV Ventures and Tributes
Television welcomed Suzanne as she appeared in popular shows like “Law & Order,” “Third Watch,” and “Blue Bloods.” Fellow “Sopranos” actor Ray Abruzzo, paying his respects on Instagram, aptly described her as a “force of nature” and an actress par excellence.
Behind the Scenes and Legacy
Suzanne’s talents weren’t confined to the front of the camera. She spread her wings as a director in theaters across the U.S. and spent over four decades molding aspiring actors in her New York studio. An upcoming documentary, “A Gift of Fire,” is set to capture her legacy as an inspiring acting teacher.
Survived by Family, Remembered by Many
Beyond her illustrious career, Suzanne leaves behind a daughter, Kate Shepherd, a son-in-law, Miles McManus, and a granddaughter, Isabelle Shepherd. Her impact on the entertainment world and the lives she touched will undoubtedly be remembered with fondness and admiration.
In the words of Ray Abruzzo, Suzanne Shepherd was a true force of nature—a sentiment that echoes through the characters she brought to life and the hearts she touched along the way.
