The country legend is deeply saddened after the recent passing of a man with whom she shared many moments and spent a great deal of time working with on the set of 1989’s Steel Magnolias.
Dolly Parton, who has been on the silver screen many times throughout the course of her lengthy career, is perhaps most recognized for her portrayal of Truvy Jones in Steel Magnolias. The iconic film has remained a steadfast classic and proved its timeless nature with each passing decade.
In the film, Truvy is married to a man named Spud – played by notable actor and playwright Sam Shepard. Together, their on-screen chemistry is undeniable and blossoms throughout the course of the movie.
On July 27th, Shepard tragically passed away from complications associated with ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease. He was 73 years old.
Parton remembered and mourned the loss of her cherished co-star and friend in a statement to Rare, expressing her heartfelt feelings and fond memories of the time they spent working on Steel Magnolias together.
“I was so sorry to hear of Sam’s passing,” She told the site. “What a nice man and what a great actor. I was honored to have him play my husband in ‘Steel Magnolias.’ Rest in peace, my friend.”
Shepard was known for his work acting in films like Steel Magnolias, The Right Stuff, The Pelican Brief, Black Hawk Down, The Notebook, and man more. He also penned a large number of plays throughout his lifetime, earning a Pulitzer Prize for Buried Child, and being named “the greatest American playwright of his generation” by New York Magazine.
Our hearts go out to Shepard’s family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
Watch the scene below from Steel Magnolias that captures the incredible on-screen chemistry between Parton and Shepard.