Let’s talk about Sally Kellerman, a name synonymous with Hollywood's golden era. She first charmed audiences in the 1970 film M*A*S*H, playing the unforgettable Major Margaret J “Hot Lips” Houlihan. This role not only earned her an Academy Award nomination but also cemented her place in cinematic history. On February 24, 2022, at the age of 84, Sally passed away, leaving behind a legacy of incredible performances. She is survived by her son, Jack Krane, and daughter Claire Kellerman.
Jack confirmed the heartbreaking news of his mother’s passing to The Hollywood Reporter after a courageous battle with dementia. Social media lit up with heartfelt tributes from co-stars and friends, including William Shatner, Treat Williams, and singer Nancy Sinatra. Her impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable, and her absence is deeply felt.
But Sally’s career wasn’t just defined by one iconic role. She graced the screen in films like The Boston Strangler (1968), Someone to Love (1987), and Prêt-à-Porter (1994). Beyond the silver screen, the California-born star made waves on television, appearing in classic series like The Twilight Zone (1963), Bonanza, and Star Trek (both in 1966). Sally wasn’t just an actress—she was also a talented singer, voiceover artist, and author. Despite her skyrocketing fame in the '70s, her ultimate dream was to start a family.
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In a candid 1973 interview, she revealed her aspirations. “I love acting … but my fantasy is to have a couple of babies and make an album a year, and maybe a picture a year too,” she shared. “I don’t want to not do either one.” Sally had a way of balancing her professional and personal life with grace and determination.
Sally’s journey in love and family began in 1970 when she married her first husband, Rick Edelstein. Though their marriage lasted only until 1972, it was just the start of her personal adventures. In 1980, she tied the knot with screenwriter Jonathan D. Krane, and together they adopted three children. Tragically, Jonathan passed away in August 2016, shortly before Sally announced the devastating loss of their daughter, Hannah Krane.
Getting to Know Sally’s Daughter Claire Kellerman
Claire Kellerman holds a special place in Sally’s heart. Sally became a mom for the first time in the '70s when she adopted her niece Claire. Sally treated Claire as her own, and she even served as the maid of honor at Sally’s 1980 wedding to Jonathan. That same year, Sally starred in the coming-of-age film Foxes. In an interview with Roger Ebert after the film’s release, Sally opened up about her connection to her character, Mary.
“I could identify with the role. I have a daughter who’s 15,” she explained. “She doesn’t have the problems of the kids in this movie, but she does think she’s going to be better than me at everything. That’s what she says: ‘I’m gonna be better than you are. A better singer. Better at everything.’ I asked her one thing: ‘Do you think that’ll make you happy? Wait and see if it does.’ She got real quiet.”
Who Is Sally’s Son Jack Krane?
Jack Krane entered Sally’s life when she was 52, along with his twin sister Hannah. “A friend said, ‘All your friends think you’re crazy,’” Sally told the Los Angeles Times in April 2013 about becoming a mom again later in life. “I said, ‘You’re kidding.’ I never had a sense of my age, and I don’t intend to.”
In her 2013 memoir, Read My Lips: Stories of a Hollywood Life, Sally fondly recalled moments with her children, including the first time she brought them home. Jonathan’s stepmother, Bubby, was there to welcome them with open arms, embodying the unconditional love that Sally cherished.
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Remembering Sally’s Daughter Hannah Krane
In October 2016, Sally shared the heartbreaking news of her daughter Hannah's passing on Facebook. It was a devastating blow, coming just a few months after the loss of her beloved husband Jonathan.
“So sorry to report the sudden and unexpected passing of my beloved daughter Hannah Krane at the age of 27 on Sunday, October 23,” she wrote. “Just a little more than three months after I lost my darling husband Jonathan. Thank Heaven for her twin brother, Jack. We ask for your love and support at this terrible time. Love, Sally.”
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