Dominique Dunne

American actress known for roles in Poltergeist and Family, whose life tragically ended in 1982.

Chronology: 1959-11-23 – 1982-11-04

Early Life and Cinematic Beginnings

Dominique Ellen Dunne was an American actress whose career began with early television appearances. She made her on-screen debut in the television film Diary of a Teenage Hitchhiker in 1979, establishing herself in the industry before taking on recurring roles in popular series.

Breakthrough Roles in Genre Cinema

Dunne achieved significant recognition through her roles in both drama and horror genres. Her career peaked with her breakthrough performance as Dana Freeling in the blockbuster horror film Poltergeist in 1982. She also headlined the Western film The Shadow Riders.

Tragic Conclusion and Legacy

Dunne's life concluded tragically following an altercation. After being strangled on October 30, 1982, she entered a coma and passed away five days later, at the age of 22, leaving behind a noted, albeit brief, cinematic legacy.

Source: Wikipedia