Valerie Perrine’s Health Struggles, The ‘Superman’ Star’s Long Battle With Parkinson’s Explored

Valerie Perrine used to be one of the most popular actresses in Hollywood. She has now passed away on March 23, 2026, at her residence in Beverly Hills. Valerie was 82 years old at the time of her death. Valerie Perrine was also a recipient of many accolades. She won a British Academy Film Award in 1976 and the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival in 1975. Perrine continued working in the entertainment industry until 2016, with Silver Skies marking her final film.

Although Valerie Perrine was frequently featured in films and TV shows since 1971, she was also battling health issues. Keep reading to know more!

Valerie Perrine was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease years ago

Valerie Perrine’s health issues date back to 2015 when she was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. In a 2025 interview, the actress shared details, saying she discovered a tremor while working on a movie. Notably, Valerie had to carry dishes, and the scene needed multiple takes due to the sound that was coming while she carried the dishes. Valerie said that this was the first symptom of Parkinson’s that she found in the beginning, and the diagnosis was made many years later.

Valerie stated that she opted to hide her health problem from the entire film industry since she believed that the show must go on. Valerie even recalled the time she worked on her last film, Silver Skies. Perrine said that while discussing her role with director, Rosemary Rodriguez, she told the latter about the complications linked with her health issues. However, Rosemary assured Valerie that everything would work. Valerie even opened up on how she managed the disease and said:

“I take medications, and I had deep brain stimulation. Those help. Marijuana has also helped. I’ve always lived in the moment. I don’t dwell on the past or worry about the future. I try to live for today, and Parkinson’s hasn’t changed that.”

Valerie Perrine battled aphasia while dealing with Parkinson’s disease

According to The Grunge, the tremors on Valerie Perrine first appeared in 2011. It was spotted on a few more occasions, including some events. However, Valerie ensured the audience at that time that it was not a result of her fear of heights. The situation changed when her brother, an expert in neurological disorders, witnessed that the tremors still existed in Valerie’s hand while she was at rest. This eventually led to a confirmed diagnosis of the disease.

Valerie Perrine later started taking treatment for the tremors. She underwent deep-brain stimulation. It refers to a procedure where electric currents sent to the brain for interfering with irregular signals, leading to involuntary movements, are used for anyone battling neurodegenerative diseases. Although the tremors stopped, Valerie’s mobility was reduced, and she had to use a hydraulic lift in her bedroom. Furthermore, she was later diagnosed with aphasia, which reversed at one point, and she was able to speak again.

Valerie Perrine was a part of many films and TV shows

Valerie Perrine started her career with some films in 1972. This included Slaughterhouse-Five, which was released in theatres. She gained recognition for playing ‘Dolores Pierce’ in the CBS Soap Opera, As the World Turns. Perrine even portrayed ‘Honey Bruce’ in the 1974 biographical drama, Lenny. Valerie also became a popular face for her appearance as ‘Eve Teschmacher’ in Superman and Superman II, featuring the late actor Christopher Reeve playing the superhero. Other TV shows to her credit included Love Story, Faerie Tale Theatre, Northern Exposure, Walker, Texas Ranger, Third Watch, Lights Out, and more.

We extend our condolences to the family of Valerine Perrine.

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