Cindy Williams, who became well-known for playing Shirley in the wildly successful “Laverne & Shirley,” has passed away at the age of 75.
On Monday, January 30, her family issued a statement announcing her passing.
“The loss of our sweet, funny mother, Cindy Williams, has given us overwhelming pain that could never properly be communicated,” the statement continues.
We have enjoyed and valued the opportunity to know and love her. She was exceptional, lovely, giving, and adored by many. She also had a wonderful sense of humor and a sparkling attitude.
From 1976 through 1983, Williams was on the iconic sitcom with Penny Marshall for its 8 seasons. The American sitcom “Laverne & Shirley” once attracted the most viewers and earned 6 Golden Globes nominations and one Emmy nomination.
Williams left “Laverne & Shirley” during the 8th season when she became pregnant. However, her career saw her take on projects on Broadway, make guest appearances on shows like “8 Simple Rules” and even reunite with Penny Marshall on an episode of “Sam & Cat” in 2013.
Williams is the recipient of a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a TV Land award for Fan Favorite as well as winning Best Actress at the L.A. Comedy Film Festival for the Indy film Stealing Roses.
Cindy also garnered a BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Arts) nomination for best supporting actress in American Graffiti. Cindy’s book Shirley, I Jest!: A Storied Life was released to much critical acclaim.
Tributes are already pouring in following the announcement of Cindy’s death.