Samantha Eggar, the talented English actress known for her captivating roles in films such as The Collector and The Brood, has passed away at the age of 86. Her daughter, Jenna Stern, shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram, revealing that Eggar died peacefully and quietly, surrounded by her family. Stern expressed her privilege of being by her mother’s side during her final moments, emphasizing the love and beauty of that farewell.
Eggar’s passing was mourned by her longtime manager, Christopher Sherman, who remembered her as an exceptionally bright, funny, and talented individual, highlighting her boundless energy and the joy she brought to those around her. Sherman reflected on the cherished memories they shared, stating that he would profoundly miss her warmth and passion for the arts.
Born on May 3, 1939, in London, as Victoria Louise Samantha Marie Elizabeth Therese Eggar, she initially declined a scholarship to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts to pursue a career in fashion design. However, she later attended the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art and discovered her passion for acting, embarking on a successful career that began on stage.
Eggar’s film debut occurred in 1962 with Dr. Crippen, after which she gained recognition in the film industry with prominent roles throughout the 1960s. Her noted performance in The Collector, directed by William Wyler, earned her an Academy Award nomination, as well as accolades for Best Actress at the Cannes Film Festival and the Golden Globes.
While Eggar’s career continued to flourish in the years that followed, she also appeared in various memorable projects, including Walk, Don’t Run, and the musical Doctor Dolittle, which achieved iconic status despite its initial box-office struggles. The 1970s saw her in several significant roles, and she later transitioned back to stage productions in the 1980s.
In addition to her film and television work, Eggar lent her voice to Disney’s Hercules, portraying the character of Hera, and continued to act until her later years, with her final role in the 2012 animated series Metalocalypse.
Outside her professional accomplishments, Eggar was known for her love of animals and commitment to philanthropic efforts, advocating for organizations such as the Cousteau Society and the World Wildlife Fund. She leaves behind a legacy of impactful performances and a lasting impression on those who admired her work.
Samantha Eggar is survived by her daughter, Jenna Stern, and her son, Nicolas Stern, and will be remembered not only for her artistic contributions but also for the warmth she shared with friends and family throughout her life.