Valerie Perrine, once a Las Vegas showgirl who rose to become an Oscar-nominated actress, has died at the age of 82. She passed away on Monday morning after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease, marking the end of a life that moved from dazzling stage lights to Hollywood recognition.

Her death was confirmed by her close friend Stacey Souther, director of the 2019 documentary Valerie, which explored the actress’s health struggles. In a heartfelt message, Souther described Perrine as courageous and compassionate, someone who never complained despite her illness and who lived life fully and beautifully.

Souther also shared that Perrine’s final wish was to be laid to rest at Hollywood Hills Forest Lawn Cemetery. After more than 15 years battling Parkinson’s disease, her financial resources had been depleted, highlighting the long and difficult journey she endured in her later years.

Born in Galveston, Texas, Perrine spent much of her childhood moving due to her father’s military career, living in places such as Japan and Paris. After briefly attending the University of Arizona, she chose a different path and headed to Las Vegas, where she became a dancer and quickly rose to prominence.

She gained recognition as a lead performer in the famous Lido de Paris show at the Stardust Hotel, performing demanding routines up to 12 times a week. After eight years, ready for change, a chance encounter in Los Angeles led to her transition into Hollywood, when a single photo from her showgirl days secured her first screen test.