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Galveston Today
By the People, for the People
Valerie Perrine, 'Superman' Star and Oscar Nominee, Dies at 82
The acclaimed actress battled Parkinson's disease for over 15 years.
Mar. 24, 2026 at 3:00am
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Valerie Perrine, the Oscar-nominated actress known for her roles in films like Lenny and Superman, has died at the age of 82 after a long battle with Parkinson's disease. Perrine's passing was confirmed by Stacey Souther, the director behind a documentary short about the actress's life.
Why it matters
Perrine was a celebrated actress who received critical acclaim for her performances, including an Oscar nomination for her role in the 1974 film Lenny. Her death marks the end of an era for fans of classic Hollywood cinema and superhero movies.
The details
Perrine was born in Galveston, Texas and initially worked as a showgirl in Las Vegas before transitioning to acting. She earned early recognition for her role in the 1972 film Slaughterhouse-Five and her most acclaimed performance came in 1974's Lenny, where she played the wife of comedian Lenny Bruce. Perrine was nominated for an Academy Award, won the best actress award at the Cannes Film Festival, and received a Golden Globe nomination for her work in the film. Perrine is perhaps best known for playing Eve Teschmacher, the girlfriend of villain Lex Luthor, in the 1978 film Superman and its 1980 sequel.
- Perrine was born in Galveston, Texas.
- In 1969, Perrine was romantically involved with celebrity hairstylist Jay Sebring and was invited to, but did not attend, the infamous 1969 dinner party at the home of Sharon Tate where Sebring, Tate and several others were killed by the Manson Family.
- Perrine earned early recognition in the 1972 film Slaughterhouse-Five.
- In 1974, Perrine received critical acclaim and awards recognition for her role in the film Lenny.
- Perrine played Eve Teschmacher in the 1978 film Superman and its 1980 sequel.
The players
Valerie Perrine
An Oscar-nominated actress known for her roles in films like Lenny and Superman. She battled Parkinson's disease for over 15 years.
Stacey Souther
The director behind a documentary short about Valerie Perrine's life.
Lenny Bruce
The famed comedian whose life was the basis for the 1974 film Lenny, in which Perrine played his wife Honey Bruce.
Dustin Hoffman
The actor who played Lenny Bruce in the 1974 film Lenny.
Lex Luthor
The DC Comics villain whose girlfriend, Eve Teschmacher, was played by Perrine in the Superman films.
What they’re saying
“It is with deep sadness that I share the heartbreaking news that Valerie has passed away. 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.”
— Stacey Souther, Director of documentary about Valerie Perrine
The takeaway
Valerie Perrine's passing marks the end of an era for fans of classic Hollywood cinema and superhero movies. Her acclaimed performances, including her Oscar-nominated role in Lenny, cemented her legacy as a talented and versatile actress who faced her health challenges with grace and courage.
