A highly accomplished, talented actress, Karen Black sadly passed away at the age of 74 years old after a long battle with cancer on August 8, 2013. Looking back, Black was nominated for an Oscar for her role in 1970’s Five Easy Pieces. Just the tip of the iceberg, in her career she also won two Golden Globe Awards (out of three nominations). A lengthy career, it all began for Black late 1960’s and she continued to star on television and films up until 2009. Just to name a few, her filmography includes her role in 1969’s Easy Rider and many more.
However, in many hearts, Black is forever adored by Horror cinema fans. Analyzing how this all began, you can say it was back in 1973 when Black starred in her first Horror film The Pyx. She went onto a long career with many classic Horror films mixed in her work; highlights included 1975’s Trilogy Of Terror, 1976’s Burnt Offerings, and for younger audiences, 2003’s House of 1000 Corpses. With her unique beautiful looks and underrated acting skills Black won the hearts of film lovers for over four decades. That said, there was also something sweet and enduring about Black’s eyes and smile in each role she played. With a soft tone of voice and believable delivery she always seemed to shine bright. In a classy matter, Black also always came across as attractive and sexy in her films.
All in all, Horror fans have always had a special place in their heart for Black. After all, who could forget her excellent performance in the tales of Trilogy of Terror. Another overlooked gem, in Trilogy of Terror Black played numerous roles in what is now a cornerstone performance in the mind of many fans. Then there is Burnt Offerings; possibly one of the most underrated horror films of it’s era. With an excellent story, pace, atmosphere, and cast, Black’s performance was nothing less than extraordinary as a wife and mother facing the evil’s of a possessed house.
Overall, Black starred in over thirty feature films, made numerous appearances on television, and diversified her resume along the way. Thankfully many were fortunate enough to meet Karen Black during her guest appearances at horror conventions in the years prior to becoming ill with cancer. Signing autographs and in good spirits, people would agree she was a very sweet, humble, and most of all a real human being. Coming from the heart, she held conversations with fans, and although many could say they never knew her personally, most would say that she came across as being just as beautiful a human as she was an actress. That is why many have a heavy heart as they express condolences to Black’s family and friends. Rest in peace Karen Black, may your films be watched until the end of times and your legacy live on forever.
The “Trilogy Of Terror” scared the bejeezus out of me when I was a younger person. I still get a chill when I think of that little doll and its teeth. Yikes. Rest in Peace Karen, you shall be missed.
I completly agree and still remember a scene when she was searching for that doll under some furniture.Oh l was terrified and only about 8 years old! Still remember.Rest in peace dear Karen Black.I am so sorry cancer got you.You will me so missed.