Posted on 03/24/2026 10:09:56 PM PDT by nickcarraway
The American actress was nominated for an Oscar for 1974 biopic 'Lenny'
Valerie Perrine, best known for her work on the 1970s Superman films as well as the Oscar-nominated biopic Lenny, has died at the age of 82.
The American actress had been fighting Parkinson’s disease since 2015, and passed away at her home in Beverly Hills on Monday (March 23). Her friend, Stacey Souther, announced her death via the star’s Facebook page.
“It is with deep sadness that I share the heartbreaking news that Valerie has passed away” he wrote. “She faced Parkinson’s disease with incredible courage and compassion, never once complaining. She was a true inspiration who lived life to the fullest—and what a magnificent life it was. The world feels less beautiful without her in it. I love you, Valerie. I’ll see you on the other side.” The post also included a GoFundMe link to raise funds for her burial.
Following a career as a Las Vegas showgirl, Perrine moved into acting and starred opposite Dustin Hoffman in Lenny, the 1974 biopic of stand up comedian Lenny Bruce. Her performance as his wife, Honey, earned the actress an Oscar nomination for Best Actress. She would also win a BAFTA award for Most Promising Newcomer to Leading Film Roles, as well as Best Actress at the Cannes Film Festival.
Perhaps her most famous role would come as Eve Teschmacher, secretary to villain Lex Luthor (Gene Hackman) in 1978 blockbuster Superman, as well as its sequel, Superman II. The kind-hearted character was an original creation for the movie, and was recently played by Sara Sampaio in James Gunn’s 2025 reboot, also titled Superman. Her other notable appearances include 2000 comedy What Women Want starring Mel Gibson, TV drama ER, and soap opera As The World Turns.
Sarah Douglas, who played villain Ursa in Superman II, shared an Instagram picture of her with Perrine with the caption: “Happy days, dearest Valerie. Your courageous battle is over but we will never forget you.”
Valerie Perrine is survived by her brother, Ken.
A short lived one season comedy series Leo and Liz in Beverly Hills in 1986 had Harvey Korman and Valerie Perrine. I liked it a lot but the American people were, as usual, unable to support it.
Line I remember. Harvey Korman in his mansion “People are so quick to judge. They see two Rolls Royces parked in our front drive and automatically assume we have money.”
Montana Wildhack in “Slaughterhouse Five”. That was the first time I saw her in anything and it was love at first sight.
RIP Ms. Perrine.
I loved her as Miss Teschmacher in Superman (1). One of my fave movies. RIP.
She was a besutiful woman.
I loved her for different reasons than you obviously did. I really thought she played the role well. ;)
Rest In Peace, Valerie.
Just like Dame Diana Ring and Ann-Margaret.
Can you imagine if she hadn’t been part of the movie? It would’ve lost something.
-PJ
RIP!!!
Condolences to family and friends of Valerie Perrine. Terrible disease that Parkinson. RIP mom.
It would have lost two somethings.
Harvey Korman was beyond funny with great timing! Blazing Saddles was where he was at his best. That and Carol Burnett.
I can see why.
Valerie’s brother Steve Perrine was a classmate at Cornell in
the early 70’s. She would make an occasional appearance at
my fraternity. Tons of fun. Great gal.
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