History of Sally Kellerman in Timeline

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Sally Kellerman

Sally Clare Kellerman was an American actress with a career spanning six decades. She is best known for her Oscar-nominated role as Major Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan in the movie M*A*S*H (1970). She frequently collaborated with its director Robert Altman, appearing in several of his films. Kellerman enjoyed a prolific career in both film and television, with roles in movies like Last of the Red Hot Lovers and Back to School, and TV series such as The Twilight Zone, Star Trek, and 90210. She also lent her voice to animated projects, notably Sesame Street Presents: Follow That Bird.

June 2, 1937: Sally Kellerman is born

On June 2, 1937, Sally Clare Kellerman was born. This marks the beginning of her life and illustrious career in the entertainment industry.

1957: Sally Kellerman's early acting career beginnings

Sally Kellerman's acting journey took off in 1957 when she made her on-screen debut in the film "Reform School Girl." She also immersed herself in the world of theater, appearing in a production of John Osborne's "Look Back in Anger" alongside fellow aspiring actors who would later become renowned figures in Hollywood.

1961: Underwent a Botched Home Abortion

In 1961, Sally Kellerman experienced a botched home abortion and sought hospital treatment for the first time in her life due to her Christian Science upbringing. This occurred during a relationship with actor William Duffy.

1962: Sally Kellerman's stage appearances

Sally Kellerman actively pursued stage acting, with appearances in Henrik Ibsen's "An Enemy of the People" and a Pasadena Playhouse production of Leslie Stevens's "The Marriage-Go-Round." She further honed her craft in Michael Shurtleff's play "Call Me by My Rightful Name" in 1962.

1963: Sally Kellerman's appearances in "The Twilight Zone" and "The Outer Limits"

In 1963, Sally Kellerman made notable appearances in two iconic television series: "The Twilight Zone" and "The Outer Limits."

1963: Sally Kellerman appears in "The Outer Limits" and "My Three Sons"

Sally Kellerman appeared in an episode of the science fiction television series "The Outer Limits" titled "The Human Factor" in 1963. This year, she also made a guest appearance in an episode of the popular sitcom "My Three Sons."

1964: Sally Kellerman stars in "The Outer Limits" episode "The Bellero Shield"

In 1964, Sally Kellerman had a notable role in the "The Outer Limits" episode "The Bellero Shield," showcasing her acting range.

1965: Sally Kellerman appears in "The Third Day," "The Rogues," and "The Alfred Hitchcock Hour"

Sally Kellerman appeared in several television productions in 1965, including a role in the film "The Third Day," a guest appearance in an episode of David Niven's television series "The Rogues," and a role in an episode of the suspense anthology series "The Alfred Hitchcock Hour."

1965: Sally Kellerman stars in an episode of "The Outer Limits"

Sally Kellerman returned to "The Outer Limits" in 1965 for an episode titled "The Bellero Shield."

1966: Sally Kellerman guest stars in "Star Trek" and "Bonanza"

Sally Kellerman made guest appearances in the television series "Star Trek" and "Bonanza" in 1966, expanding her repertoire in the science fiction and western genres.

1967: Sister Diana Comes Out and Family Separation

In 1967, Sally Kellerman's sister, Diana, came out as a lesbian and separated from her husband, leading to an eight-year separation from her daughter, Claire.

1968: Sally Kellerman appears in "The Invaders" and "The Boston Strangler"

Sally Kellerman made appearances in two distinct projects in 1968: the science fiction television series "The Invaders" and the crime thriller film "The Boston Strangler."

1969: Sally Kellerman acts in "The April Fools" and "Hawaii Five-O"

Sally Kellerman appeared in the romantic comedy film "The April Fools" alongside Jack Lemmon in 1969. This year, she also guest-starred in an episode of the police procedural series "Hawaii Five-O."

December 17, 1970: Marriage to Rick Edelstein

On December 17, 1970, shortly after the release of "MASH," Sally Kellerman married Rick Edelstein, a producer known for his work on "Starsky & Hutch."

1970: Sally Kellerman's success with "M*A*S*H" and collaboration with Robert Altman

1970 marked a significant year for Sally Kellerman's career. Her performance as Major Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan in Robert Altman's "M*A*S*H" earned her critical acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination. She also collaborated with Altman on the film "Brewster McCloud," contributing a song to its soundtrack.

1970: Sally Kellerman's breakthrough role in "M*A*S*H"

In 1970, Sally Kellerman landed her breakout role as Major Margaret "Hot Lips" Houlihan in Robert Altman's critically acclaimed film "M*A*S*H." Her performance garnered significant recognition, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress in a Supporting Role.

1970: Sally Kellerman contributes to the "Brewster McCloud" soundtrack

Sally Kellerman contributed songs to the soundtrack of Robert Altman's film "Brewster McCloud" in 1970, displaying her versatility as an artist.

1971: Sally Kellerman reflects on her television career

In a 1971 interview with Life magazine, Sally Kellerman shared her experiences and challenges navigating the television industry during her early acting years.

1971: Relationship with Lawrence Hauben and Documentary "Venus"

In the late 1960s, Sally Kellerman was in a relationship with actor-screenwriter Lawrence Hauben. He directed a documentary about their relationship titled "Venus," which had a limited release in 1971.

March 6, 1972: Divorce from Rick Edelstein

Sally Kellerman and Rick Edelstein divorced on March 6, 1972, citing irreconcilable differences. Their marriage was short-lived and marked by conflict.

1972: Sally Kellerman releases her first album

Despite signing a recording contract years earlier, Sally Kellerman recorded and released her debut album, "Roll with the Feelin'," in 1972.

1972: Sally Kellerman stars in "A Reflection of Fear"

In 1972, Sally Kellerman showcased her versatility by taking on a role in the slasher film "A Reflection of Fear."

1972: Sally Kellerman's career choices and musical endeavors

In 1972, after filming "Last of the Red Hot Lovers," Sally Kellerman made deliberate career choices, declining certain roles while pursuing musical endeavors. She recorded her first demo with Lou Adler and worked on her debut album.

1972: Sally Kellerman in "Last of the Red Hot Lovers"

Sally Kellerman starred in Gene Saks' film adaptation of Neil Simon's comedy "Last of the Red Hot Lovers" in 1972.

1973: Sally Kellerman appears in "Slither" and "Lost Horizon"

Sally Kellerman appeared in the road movie "Slither" alongside James Caan and in the musical remake of "Lost Horizon," contributing to the latter's soundtrack, in 1973.

1973: Sally Kellerman's musical contribution to "Lost Horizon"

Sally Kellerman continued her involvement in film soundtracks, contributing to Charles Jarrott's musical remake of "Lost Horizon" in 1973.

October 1975: Sally Kellerman's performance at Reno Sweeney

In October 1975, Sally Kellerman showcased her musical talents with a performance at the renowned venue Reno Sweeney.

1975: Sally Kellerman stars in "Rafferty and the Gold Dust Twins"

Sally Kellerman landed a leading role in the film "Rafferty and the Gold Dust Twins" in 1975, further establishing her presence in the film industry.

January 30, 1976: Adopted Niece Claire

On January 30, 1976, Sally Kellerman adopted her niece, Claire. Claire's mother, Diana (Sally's sister), had come out as a lesbian in 1967 and separated from her husband, Ian Charles Cargill Graham, who had full custody of Claire.

1976: Relationship with Mark Farner and Other Romances

In the mid-1970s, Sally Kellerman was romantically involved with Mark Farner of the rock band Grand Funk Railroad. He wrote the song "Sally" about their relationship. She also had relationships with several other individuals in the entertainment industry, including screenwriters and actors.

1976: Sally Kellerman in "Welcome to L.A."

Sally Kellerman appeared in the Alan Rudolph-directed and Robert Altman-produced film "Welcome to L.A." in 1976, showcasing her versatility as an actress.

1976: Sally Kellerman stars in "The Big Bus" and "Welcome to L.A."

Sally Kellerman appeared in two films in 1976: the disaster film parody "The Big Bus" and the drama "Welcome to L.A.", directed by Alan Rudolph and produced by Robert Altman.

1977: Sally Kellerman voices a character in "The Mouse and His Child"

Expanding her voice acting credits, Sally Kellerman lent her voice to the animated film "The Mouse and His Child" in 1977.

1978: Television and Film Roles

In 1978, Sally Kellerman appeared in various roles on television, including Maureen in "Verna: USO Girl" and Veronica Sterling in "She'll Be Sweet".

1979: Role in "A Little Romance"

Sally Kellerman took on the role of Kay King in George Roy Hill's film "A Little Romance" in 1979.

May 11, 1980: Marriage to Jonathan D. Krane

Sally Kellerman married producer Jonathan D. Krane in a private ceremony on May 11, 1980, at the Malibu home of actress Jennifer Jones.

November 15, 1980: Stage Role in "Holiday"

Concluding on November 15, 1980, Sally Kellerman starred as Julia Seton in Philip Barry's "Holiday" at the Ahmanson Theatre.

February 7, 1981: Hosting Saturday Night Live

On February 7, 1981, Sally Kellerman hosted Saturday Night Live, participating in sketches and closing the show with a musical performance.

1985: Sally Kellerman voices Miss Finch in "Sesame Street Presents: Follow That Bird"

In 1985, Sally Kellerman lent her voice to the character of Miss Finch in the animated film "Sesame Street Presents: Follow That Bird," which became one of her most notable voice-acting roles.

1985: Film Roles

Sally Kellerman appeared in "Secret Weapons" and "Moving Violations" in 1985.

1986: Comedic Film Roles

In 1986, she appeared in comedic roles in "Back to School" and "That's Life".

1986: Sally Kellerman appears in the comedy "Back to School"

Sally Kellerman showcased her comedic talents in the film "Back to School" in 1986.

1987: Role in "Three for the Road"

Sally Kellerman took on a role in the film "Three for the Road" in 1987.

1989: Adopted Twins Jack and Hanna

In 1989, Sally Kellerman and Jonathan D. Krane adopted newborn twins, Jack Donald and Hanna Vaughan.

1990: Sally Kellerman's voice acting in "Happily Ever After"

In 1990, Sally Kellerman contributed her voice to the animated film "Happily Ever After."

1991: Relocation to Jupiter, Florida

Sally Kellerman and her family moved to Jupiter, Florida, in 1991.

1992: Sally Kellerman's voice work in the animated series "Dinosaurs"

Adding to her voice acting repertoire, Sally Kellerman contributed to the animated series "Dinosaurs" in 1992.

1992: Planned Second Album and Role in "Boris and Natasha: The Movie"

Although the album was never released, Sally Kellerman planned to release her second album in the late 1980s. In 1992, she starred in and produced "Boris and Natasha: The Movie", from which a song was intended for the unreleased album.

1992: Sally Kellerman's contribution to the "Boris and Natasha: The Movie" soundtrack

In 1992, Sally Kellerman contributed to the soundtrack of the film "Boris and Natasha: The Movie."

1992: Appearance in "The Player"

In 1992, Sally Kellerman made an appearance as herself in the film "The Player".

1992: Sally Kellerman appears in Robert Altman's "The Player"

Sally Kellerman continued her collaborations with Robert Altman, appearing in his film "The Player" in 1992.

1993: Film and Television Roles

Sally Kellerman appeared in "Younger and Younger" and an episode of "Murder She Wrote" in 1993.

1994: Sally Kellerman stars in "Prêt-à-Porter"

Further solidifying her association with Robert Altman, Sally Kellerman appeared in his film "Prêt-à-Porter" in 1994.

1994: First Separation from Jonathan D. Krane

Sally Kellerman and Jonathan D. Krane separated for a brief period in 1994.

1994: Film Roles

Sally Kellerman appeared in two films in 1994: "Mirror, Mirror II: Raven Dance" and "Prêt-à-Porter".

May 21, 1995: Stage Role in "Mame"

Concluding on May 21, 1995, Sally Kellerman played the title role in the Maltz Jupiter Theatre production of "Mame".

1996: Television Role

Sally Kellerman appeared in an episode of "The Naked Truth" in 1996.

1997: Planned Role in "Mrs. Scrooge: A Slightly Different Christmas Carol"

Although the film was never released, Sally Kellerman was scheduled to play the title role in "Mrs. Scrooge: A Slightly Different Christmas Carol" in 1997.

1997: Second Separation from Jonathan D. Krane

Sally Kellerman and Jonathan D. Krane separated again from 1997 to 1998 following Krane's public affair with actress Nastassja Kinski. Kellerman later forgave him for the infidelity.

1997: Sally Kellerman's role in the TV series "Gun"

Sally Kellerman participated in the short-lived anthology TV series "Gun" in 1997, which was also a project by Robert Altman.

1998: Appearance in "Columbo"

Sally Kellerman made an appearance in an episode of the television series "Columbo" in 1998.

June 10, 1999: Planned Parenthood Press Conference

On June 10, 1999, Sally Kellerman joined Kathleen Turner and Beverly Peele at a Planned Parenthood press conference in support of a proposed law.

March 2002: Performance in "What a Pair"

In March 2002, Sally Kellerman performed in "What a Pair", a benefit concert for breast cancer research in Los Angeles.

2004: Role in "Teatro ZinZanni" and Susan B. Anthony Award

In the summer of 2004, Sally Kellerman played host Madame ZinZanni in "Teatro ZinZanni". That same year, she received the Susan B. Anthony "Failure is Impossible" Award at the High Falls Film Festival.

2006: Sally Kellerman appears in "The Minor Accomplishments of Jackie Woodman"

Demonstrating her enduring presence in the entertainment industry, Sally Kellerman appeared in the television series "The Minor Accomplishments of Jackie Woodman" in 2006.

2006: Appearance in "The Minor Accomplishments of Jackie Woodman"

Sally Kellerman appeared as herself in an episode of the television series "The Minor Accomplishments of Jackie Woodman" in 2006.

September 2008: Duet with Ray Brown Jr.

In September 2008, Sally Kellerman recorded a duet, "I Thought About You," with Ray Brown Jr. for his album "Friends and Family".

2008: Return to Hollywood

Facing financial difficulties, Sally Kellerman and her family sold their condo in Jupiter, Florida, and moved back to Hollywood in 2008.

2008: Sally Kellerman guest stars in "90210"

Sally Kellerman made a guest appearance in the popular television series "90210" in 2008.

2009: Release of Album "Sally" and Role in "The Wishing Well"

Sally Kellerman released a jazz and blues album, "Sally", in 2009. That same year, she also appeared in the made-for-television film, "The Wishing Well".

2009: Sally Kellerman's second album "Sally" is released

Sally Kellerman released her second studio album, titled "Sally," in 2009, showcasing her musical talents.

2011: Accolade for "Night Club" and Role in "Chemistry"

In 2011, Sally Kellerman starred in the film "Night Club," earning an Accolade Competition Award for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of a woman with Alzheimer's. The same year, she also had a recurring role as Lola, an eccentric artist, in the Cinemax series "Chemistry" and made guest appearances on the CW series "90210."

2011: Sally Kellerman appears in the television series "Chemistry"

Sally Kellerman continued to take on diverse roles, appearing in the television series "Chemistry" in 2011.

July 7, 2012: Appearance on Celebrity Ghost Stories

On July 7, 2012, Sally Kellerman appeared in an episode of the Biography Channel's "Celebrity Ghost Stories" alongside Tito Ortiz, Cary Elwes, and Drake Bell.

2012: Sally Kellerman provides voice work for "Unsupervised"

Sally Kellerman lent her voice to the animated series "Unsupervised" in 2012.

April 30, 2013: Release of Memoir "Read My Lips: Stories of a Hollywood Life"

On April 30, 2013, Sally Kellerman's memoir, "Read My Lips: Stories of a Hollywood Life," was published by Weinstein Books. The book explores her personal experiences and career in Hollywood.

September 2013: Fort Lauderdale Film Festival Honor and "Joan's Day Out" Role

In September 2013, Sally Kellerman received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival. She also appeared in the short film "Joan's Day Out," playing a grandmother who helps her granddaughter.

2013: Sally Kellerman voices a character in "The High Fructose Adventures of Annoying Orange" and publishes her memoir

In 2013, Sally Kellerman continued her voice acting work in "The High Fructose Adventures of Annoying Orange." This year also marked the release of her memoir, "Read My Lips: Stories of a Hollywood Life," where she candidly shared her experiences in the entertainment industry.

2013: Sally Kellerman's role in the television series "Maron"

Sally Kellerman made an appearance in the television series "Maron" in 2013, further solidifying her enduring career in the entertainment industry.

February 2014: Joined Love Can Initiative

In February 2014, Sally Kellerman became involved with the Love Can Initiative, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting low-income families and children.

August 6, 2014: Featured in Robert Altman Documentary

On August 6, 2014, Sally Kellerman was featured in an Epix Network documentary that celebrated the life and work of director Robert Altman.

October 2014: Cast in "The Young and the Restless" and Daytime Emmy Nomination

In October 2014, TVLine announced Sally Kellerman's casting as Constance Bingham on the soap opera "The Young and the Restless." She received a Daytime Emmy nomination for her performance.

August 1, 2016: Death of Husband Jonathan D. Krane

On August 1, 2016, Jonathan D. Krane, Sally Kellerman's husband, passed away at the age of 64 due to a heart attack.

October 22, 2016: Death of Daughter Hanna Krane

Sally Kellerman's adopted daughter, Hanna Krane, died on October 22, 2016, at the age of 27 from a drug overdose.

2016: Continued Roles in "Maron" and "Decker"

Sally Kellerman continued her recurring role in the comedy series "Maron" in 2016 and also appeared in five episodes of the series "Decker."

February 24, 2022: Sally Kellerman passes away

Sally Kellerman passed away on February 24, 2022, marking the end of an era. Her six-decade-long acting career left an indelible mark on the film and television industry.