Oscar-Nominated Actress Penelope Milford, Star of ‘Coming Home,’ Dies at 77

Penelope Milford, an acclaimed actress best known for her Oscar-nominated role in the Vietnam War drama “Coming Home,” has died. She was 77 years old. Milford passed away on Tuesday in an assisted living facility in Saugerties, New York.

Her sister, Candace Saint, confirmed the news to The Hollywood Reporter. The cause of death was not disclosed.

A Breakout Role and Lasting Legacy

Milford earned a Best Supporting Actress nomination for her performance in the 1978 film “Coming Home.” She played Vi Munson, the bohemian roommate of Jane Fonda’s character. Her role was pivotal in guiding Fonda’s Sally Hyde to volunteer at a Veterans Administration hospital.

The film was a major critical success. It earned four acting Oscar nominations, with Fonda and Jon Voight both winning for their leading roles. Milford lost the supporting award to Maggie Smith for “California Suite.”

A Varied Career Across Stage and Screen

Beyond her iconic film role, Milford built a diverse career. She appeared in Ken Russell’s “Valentino” (1977) as silent-film star Lorna Sinclair. She also played the guidance counselor in the cult classic “Heathers” (1988).

Her television work included acclaimed TV movies like “The Burning Bed” with Farrah Fawcett. On Broadway, she earned a Drama Desk nomination for her performance in the musical “Shenandoah.” A New York Times review praised her singing and called her performance “fetching.”

Milford’s career demonstrated her wide-ranging talent. She moved from major Hollywood films to independent projects and stage productions with ease.

Penelope Milford’s passing marks the loss of a versatile and celebrated talent from a defining era of American cinema. Her Oscar-nominated performance in “Coming Home” remains a powerful part of her enduring legacy.

Thought you’d like to know-

What was Penelope Milford’s most famous role?

She is best known for her Oscar-nominated role as Vi Munson in the 1978 drama “Coming Home.” Her performance alongside Jane Fonda was a critical highlight of her career.

Did Penelope Milford appear in any other notable films?

Yes, she had roles in Ken Russell’s “Valentino” and the dark comedy cult classic “Heathers.” She also appeared in Franco Zeffirelli’s “Endless Love.”

Did she have a career on Broadway?

She did. Milford earned a Drama Desk nomination for her performance in the Civil War musical “Shenandoah.” She also appeared in the Broadway production of “Lenny.”

What was the cause of her death?

The cause of death has not been publicly released. Her sister confirmed her passing to The Hollywood Reporter but did not disclose a specific cause.

Where did she pass away?

Penelope Milford died in an assisted living facility located in Saugerties, New York. She had moved to the area in 2003.

Trusted Sources

The Hollywood Reporter, New York Times