Doctor Dolittle, The Collector Fame Samantha Eggar Dies At 86; Daughter Posts Emotional Tribute

British

actress Samantha Eggar, best known for her Oscar-nominated role in The Collector and her memorable performance in Doctor Dolittle, passed away peacefully at the age of 86 in Los Angeles. Her daughter, actress Jenna Stern, shared a heartfelt tribute remembering her mother’s graceful and loving final moments.

Samantha Eggar dies of long illness

The Golden Globe-winning actress breathed her last on Wednesday at her home in Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, surrounded by her loved ones. According to TMZ, her family confirmed that she had been battling a long illness before her peaceful passing.In a touching Instagram post, her daughter Jenna Stern wrote, “My Mama passed Wednesday evening. Peacefully and quietly surrounded by family. I was there next to her … holding her hand, telling her how much she was loved. It was beautiful. It was a privilege.”

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A post shared by Jenna Stern (@jenna_stern)

Samantha is survived by her daughter Jenna, producer son Nicolas Stern, their spouses, three grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. She was previously married to actor Tom Stern from 1964 to 1971.

Samantha's glorious career

Born in London in 1939, Samantha Eggar became one of the most admired talents of her generation. Her breakout role came in 1965 when she starred alongside Terence Stamp in William Wyler’s psychological thriller The Collector. Her haunting portrayal of Miranda Grey earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress, as well as the Golden Globe and the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival, achievements that catapulted her to international fame.Following the success of The Collector, Eggar went on to appear in a range of acclaimed films, including Doctor Dolittle (1967) opposite Rex Harrison, and later collaborated with David Cronenberg in his early horror classic The Brood (1979). Her career spanned over five decades, encompassing more than 100 film and television projects, including notable appearances in Anna and the King, The Saint, The Love Boat, and All My Children. Her final film appearance came in 2012 when she lent her voice to the animated series Metalocalypse, marking the end of an illustrious journey in entertainment.A brilliant performer with a unique charm, Samantha Eggar’s legacy continues to live on through her unforgettable performances and the love she inspired in audiences worldwide.