‘Private Benjamin’ Star Eileen Brennan Dies
Eileen Brennan, who starred in Private Benjamin opposite Goldie Hawn, died in her Burbank, California home Sunday. She was 80 years old.
Brennan’s publicist told The Hollywood Reporter that the veteran actress died from bladder cancer.
In 1980, Brennan starred opposite Goldie Hawn as US Army Captain Doreen Lewis in Private Benjamin, earning a best supporting actress Oscar nomination for the role. She reprised the role in the TV adaptation from 1981 to 1983, earning an Emmy and Golden Globe award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series and Best Actress in a Television Series Musical or Comedy, respectively. Altogether, Brennan was nominated for seven Emmys, two Golden Globes, and one Academy Award.
Brennan was also nominated for a BAFTA Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for her role as Genevieve, a waitress in the 1971 film The Last Picture Show.
Brennan also appeared in six episodes of Will & Grace as Zandra, Jack’s (Sean Hayes) elderly acting teacher who insists he is one of the worst students she has ever had. She was nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series.
Brennan’s family said in a statement, “Our family is so grateful for the outpouring of love and respect for Eileen. She was funny and caring and truly one of a kind. Her strength and love will never be forgotten. She will be greatly missed by all of us.”
Michael McKean, who played Mr. Green in Clue— in which Brennan played Mrs. Peacock — tweeted Tuesday:
Eileen Brennan was a brilliant actress, a tough & tender woman and a comic angel; RIP, pal. #irreplaceable
— Michael McKean (@MJMcKean) July 30, 2013
Brennan was married to poet and photographer David John Lampson from 1968 until 1974. The couple had two sons together, Sam and Patrick.
Eileen Brenann is survived by her sons and two grandchildren.
The Inquisitr sends our condolences to Eileen Brennan’s family and friends.
