Acclaimed Actress Mary Beth Hurt Dies at 79

The Tony-nominated star of 'Interiors' and 'The World According to Garp' passed away from Alzheimer's disease.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:14pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract close-up image of a glittering, sequined fabric in high-contrast lighting, conveying the glamour and artistry of Hurt's acting career.The passing of acclaimed actress Mary Beth Hurt marks the end of an era, as the industry mourns the loss of a true talent who brought grace and depth to her craft.Marshalltown Today

Mary Beth Hurt, a renowned stage and film actress known for her roles in acclaimed movies like 'Interiors,' 'The World According to Garp,' and 'The Age of Innocence,' has died at the age of 79. Hurt, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2015, passed away on Saturday at an assisted living facility in New Jersey. Her husband, filmmaker Paul Schrader, and daughter Molly Schrader confirmed the news.

Why it matters

Hurt was a respected and versatile actor who made a significant impact on both the theater and film industries over her decades-long career. Her death marks the loss of a talented performer who brought depth and nuance to a wide range of roles, from dramas to literary adaptations. Her passing also shines a light on the challenges faced by those living with Alzheimer's disease and their loved ones.

The details

Hurt made her New York stage debut in 1973 and went on to appear in 15 Broadway productions, earning three Tony Award nominations for her work in plays like 'Trelawny of the 'Wells'' and 'Crimes of the Heart.' On the big screen, she delivered acclaimed performances in films such as Woody Allen's 'Interiors,' in which she played the directionless artist Joey, and 'The World According to Garp,' where she portrayed the wife of Robin Williams' title character. Hurt was also known for her roles in Martin Scorsese's 'The Age of Innocence' and her husband's films 'Light Sleeper' and 'Affliction.'

  • Hurt died on Saturday, March 30, 2026.
  • She was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2015.

The players

Mary Beth Hurt

A Tony Award-nominated actress known for her roles in films like 'Interiors,' 'The World According to Garp,' and 'The Age of Innocence.'

Paul Schrader

Hurt's husband, an Oscar-nominated filmmaker who directed her in the movies 'Light Sleeper' and 'Affliction.'

Molly Schrader

Hurt's daughter, who announced her mother's passing on Instagram.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“She was an actress, a wife, a sister, a mother, an aunt, a friend, and she took on all those rolls with grace and a kind ferocity.”

— Molly Schrader, Hurt's daughter

“Mary Beth saved me.”

— Paul Schrader, Hurt's husband

The takeaway

Hurt's passing is a significant loss for the theater and film communities, as she was a respected and versatile actor who brought depth and nuance to a wide range of roles over her decades-long career. Her death also highlights the challenges faced by those living with Alzheimer's disease and the importance of supporting patients and their families.