Actor Priscilla Pointer Dies at 100, Remembered for Iconic Roles

RIDGEFIELD, Conn. — Priscilla Pointer, a cherished actress known for her roles in films like “Carrie” and on the TV series “Dallas,” passed away on April 28, 2025, at the age of 100. Her death, confirmed by her son, occurred peacefully in her sleep just weeks shy of her 101st birthday.

Pointer was recognized as one of the last surviving performers linked to the works of playwright Tennessee Williams. She performed in the original tour of “A Streetcar Named Desire” and took part in several revivals throughout her career.

Born in New York City on May 18, 1924, Pointer began her career in the late 1940s and starred in numerous Broadway productions. She co-founded the San Francisco Actors’ Workshop alongside her first husband, Jules Irving, and worked with notable theater directors such as Herbert Blau.

Her Broadway appearances included classics like “The Caucasian Chalk Circle,” “Yerma,” and “The Condemned of Altona.” Pointer’s talent extended beyond the stage, as she appeared in films such as “Mommie Dearest” and “Blue Velvet,” while also gaining recognition on television.

Pointer’s notable film roles included the mother of Amy Irving‘s character in the horror film “Carrie,” a role she shared with her daughter across several other films. She also portrayed memorable characters in productions such as “Looking for Mr. Goodbar” and was cast on the soap opera “Dallas.”

After the death of her first husband in 1979, Pointer married actor Robert Symonds, who passed away in 2007. Pointer’s legacy lives on through her three children, including Academy Award nominee Amy Irving.

Amy Irving shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, expressing how much her mother would be missed and hoping she reunited with her late husbands and beloved dogs. Fans of Pointer expressed sorrow and shared memories of her impactful work in an outpouring of tributes online.