Beloved actress Piper Laurie, known for her riveting performances in films such as “Carrie” and "The Hustler," has passed away at the age of 91, according to her manager, Marion Rosenberg. Laurie's death occurred early Saturday in Los Angeles, and no cause of death has been disclosed. Rosenberg described Laurie as "one of the finest actresses of her generation and a superb human being." Turner Classic Movies, a division of Warner Brothers Discovery, also paid tribute to Laurie, calling her "one of the most celebrated and formidable actresses of the last half-century." They highlighted her ability to deliver full-blooded performances as flawed and often ferocious women. Laurie's extraordinary talent did not go unnoticed by critics and colleagues. She received Academy Award nominations for her captivating portrayals in “The Hustler” and "Carrie." Additionally, she garnered an Oscar nomination for her role as a remorseful mother in "Children of a Lesser God" and won a Golden Globe Award for her performance in the television series "Twin Peaks."

Piper Laurie was a strong-willed and dedicated actor who pursued acclaimed roles despite temporarily leaving the acting world in search of a more meaningful life. Laurie's manager, Marion Rosenberg, confirmed her passing to CBS News and expressed admiration for Laurie's talent and character. Laurie's career in Hollywood began in 1949 when she arrived as Rosetta Jacobs and quickly signed a contract with Universal-International. She soon found herself in starring roles alongside iconic actors such as Ronald Reagan, Rock Hudson, and Tony Curtis. Laurie's incredible talent was recognized with Academy Award nominations for three distinct films: “The Hustler” in 1961, the 1976 film adaptation of Stephen King's horror classic "Carrie," and the 1986 romantic drama "Children of a Lesser God." She also made notable appearances on television and stage, including her role as the villainous Catherine Martell in David Lynch's “Twin Peaks” during the 1990s. Laurie's early career included films like "Louisa," where she played Reagan's daughter, and "Francis Goes to the Races," alongside Francis the talking mule. She also had a romantic relationship with Tony Curtis and appeared in several films with him. However, Laurie eventually grew frustrated with the roles she was offered and decided to walk away from her $2,000-a-week contract in 1955. She made a vow to only return to acting if she was given meaningful roles. Laurie moved to New York and found fulfillment in theater and live television drama, earning Emmy nominations for her performances in "Days of Wine and Roses," "The Deaf Heart," and "The Road That Led After." These successes opened the door for her return to films, where she delivered an acclaimed performance as Paul Newman's troubled girlfriend in "The Hustler." Despite her achievements, Laurie then stepped away from acting for many years. She married film critic Joseph Morgenstern, had a daughter named Ann Grace, and embraced a simpler life on a farmhouse in Woodstock, New York. Laurie attributed this hiatus to her disillusionment with the Civil Rights Movement and the Vietnam War, seeking a more fulfilling existence. She never regretted her decision, stating that her life was full, and she found joy in using her hands and painting. During this time, Laurie also became known for her baking skills, with her recipes featured in The New York Times. She only returned to performing briefly to support Sen. George McGovern's 1972 presidential campaign, joining a group of musicians and actors on a college campus tour. It was director Brian De Palma who ultimately reignited Laurie's desire to act when he reached out to her about playing the deranged mother in "Carrie." Initially skeptical of the script, Laurie considered portraying the role for laughs. However, after De Palma reminded her that the film was meant to be a thriller, she fully committed to the character. “Carrie” became a massive success, sparking a trend of movies centered around teenagers in jeopardy. Both Laurie and her co-star, Sissy Spacek, received Academy Award nominations for their performances. With her passion for acting reignited, Laurie returned to a busy career that spanned decades. She made notable appearances on television shows like "Matlock," "Murder, She Wrote," and "Frasier," and portrayed George Clooney's mother on "ER." Piper Laurie's enduring talent and dedication to her craft will be remembered in the hearts of her fans and colleagues alike.