Shelley Duvall: The Hollywood Star’s 20-Year Vanishing Act and Return to the Spotlight

Shelley Duvall, a renowned figure in '70s and '80s cinema, known for her roles alongside notable actors like Jack Nicholson in Stanley Kubrick's The Shining and Robin Williams in Popeye, mysteriously disappeared from the Hollywood scene.

What led to her sudden absence?

Revealing her story to PEOPLE's Elaine Aradillas, the veteran actress sheds light on her covert existence and the reasons behind her decision to reemerge in the limelight with a new horror film, The Forest Hills.

In a quaint town in the Texas Hill Country, a waitress hastily takes down a takeout order: blackened tilapia, crab cake with wedge fries, a side salad, hard-boiled eggs, sweetened iced tea, and a Dr. Pepper with an extra cup of ice.

Pausing, she queries, “Is this for Shelley Duvall?”

For the past two decades, the 73-year-old Duvall has resided quietly in this region, where she frequents local establishments as a familiar face.

While some locals recognize her, others might be surprised to discover that the gray-haired lady, known for her versatile performances in iconic movies such as Woody Allen's Annie Hall, Robert Altman's Popeye, and Stanley Kubrick's The Shining, has been living among them.

After a prolific career spanning over 20 films and television productions, Duvall chose to withdraw from the glitz of Hollywood in 2002, opting for retirement in Central Texas.

However, a new chapter unfolds as Duvall makes a comeback to acting in an independent horror flick, The Forest Hills, set to debut on March 11 at Smodcastle Cinemas in Atlantic Highlands, N.J., owned by filmmaker Kevin Smith.

Scott Goldberg, the director-writer-producer, who seeks wider distribution for the movie, reached out to Duvall last year, offering her a supporting role.

He praises Duvall as a Hollywood legend and expresses delight in providing her with the chance to showcase her enduring talent.

Duvall herself expresses, “Acting again—it's so much fun.

It enriches your life.”

Dispelling speculations regarding her mental well-being during her lengthy hiatus from Hollywood, Duvall proves to be sharp, down-to-earth, slightly eccentric, and occasionally emotional as she reminisces about her extraordinary career.

Requesting to conduct the interview from her SUV due to a foot injury, Duvall reflects on her upbringing in Fort Worth, born in 1949, and raised in Houston, where her father practiced law and her mother delved into real estate.

Despite having three younger brothers, she describes her household as tranquil, mentioning her penchant for reading and academics.

At the age of 18, Duvall's life took an unexpected turn when she caught the eye of movie industry executives at her then-boyfriend's art exhibition.

This encounter led to auditions and ultimately her feature in Altman's 1970 comedy Brewster McCloud.

It wasn't until after her appearance in Thieves Like Us that Altman's words of praise solidified her decision to pursue acting as a profession.

Recalling the pivotal moment with tears welling, Duvall narrates, “After Thieves Like Us, Robert [Altman] looked at me and said, ‘I knew you were good, but I didn't know you were great.'

It's the reason I stuck with it and became an actress.”

Despite her success working with prominent figures in Hollywood, Duvall confesses the challenges of the acting industry, citing meager pay and the misconception that women would rely on their spouses for support.

She refrains from discussing her romantic relationships, including those with notable personalities like Paul Simon and Ringo Starr.

Amidst the interview, reminiscing about a song triggers an emotional moment, underscoring her sentimental side.

Duvall, content to stroll through memory lane, acknowledges her past works with fondness.

Encountering her films on television prompts her to pause and appreciate her performances, remarking on the stark differences between roles in movies like Popeye and The Shining, while recognizing her own greatness.

A transitional phase occurred in the '90s when dwindling film opportunities and family obligations prompted her return to Texas to care for her ailing brother.

Eager to resume her acting pursuits, Duvall draws inspiration from acclaimed actress Jessica Tandy, envisioning a future filled with potential accolades.

Expressing optimism and humor, she jests about indulging in decadent desserts before embarking on her next venture.