Valerie Perrine, ‘Superman’ Star and Oscar-Nominated Actress, Dies at 82

Valerie Perrine, the Academy Award-nominated actress known for her role as Eve Teschmacher in the original Superman films, has died at the age of 82.

She passed away on Monday, March 23, 2026, at her home in Beverly Hills after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. She was diagnosed with the condition in 2015.

Perrine rose to international fame with her performance in Superman and its sequel Superman II, where she played Eve Teschmacher, the assistant to villain Lex Luthor, portrayed by Gene Hackman. Her character became a fan favorite, remembered for her conflicted loyalties and for ultimately helping save Superman.

Her most critically acclaimed role came earlier in Lenny, where she starred opposite Dustin Hoffman as Honey Bruce. The performance earned Perrine a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actress and won her Best Actress at the Cannes Film Festival.

Before her film career, Perrine worked as a showgirl in Las Vegas. That experience helped shape her on-screen presence, which combined glamour with emotional depth. She appeared in several early films, including Slaughterhouse-Five.

In later years, Perrine became an advocate for Parkinson’s awareness, openly sharing her health journey. Her life and struggles were documented in the 2018 film Valerie, directed by her close friend and longtime caretaker Stacey Souther.

Perrine is remembered by colleagues and fans for her talent, charm, and resilience. Despite her illness, she remained a symbol of determination, often reflecting a “show must go on” spirit throughout her life and career.