Brenda Fricker, the Oscar-winning Irish actress celebrated for her roles in "My Left Foot" and as the compassionate "Pigeon Lady" in "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York," has died at the age of 81. Her agent confirmed her passing on Thursday night in Dublin, stating she died following a period of declining health.
Fricker made history in 1990 by becoming the first Irish woman to win an Academy Award, taking home the best supporting actress Oscar for her portrayal of Bridget Fagan Brown in "My Left Foot." The film, which starred Daniel Day-Lewis as Christy Brown, earned both actors Oscar recognition.
Millions of viewers also remember Fricker for her memorable performance in the 1992 film "Home Alone 2: Lost in New York." She played the lonely woman living in Central Park who forms a bond with Kevin McCallister, portrayed by Macaulay Culkin.
The actress had a prolific career spanning over 90 projects between 1964 and 2024. Her television work included a role in the original cast of the BBC medical drama "Casualty," and she appeared in "Veronica Guerin" alongside Cate Blanchett. American audiences may also recall her from the 1994 film "Angels in the Outfield."
Born in Dublin in 1945, Fricker began her acting career on stage before moving to television in the 1960s. Her international career encompassed both independent dramas and major Hollywood productions. Fricker received the Freedom of the City of Dublin earlier this year, the city's highest civic honor, recognizing her contributions to Irish arts.
Fricker's 2025 autobiography, "She Died Young: A Life in Fragments," detailed her life experiences, including struggles with sexual violence and mental health. The book became a bestseller.
Irish deputy prime minister Simon Harris paid tribute to Fricker, calling her "one of the greatest exports this country has ever produced and an ambassador for Irish talent on the world stage."