Golden Globe-winning actress Sally Kirkland, who passed away on November 11, 2025, at the age of 84, lived a remarkable life both on and off the screen. While fans remember her for her unforgettable performances in Anna (1987) and JFK, many are also curious about her family background and personal relationships. Here’s a closer look inside Sally Kirkland’s family, her upbringing, and the relationships that shaped her journey in Hollywood.
Early Life and Family Background
Sally Kirkland was born on October 31, 1941, in New York City, USA, into a highly creative and accomplished family. Her mother, Sally Kirkland Sr. (Sarah Phinney), was a renowned fashion editor who worked with top publications such as Vogue and Life Magazine. Her father, Frederic McMichael Kirkland, was involved in the media and publishing world.
Growing up surrounded by the arts, fashion, and media, young Sally developed a natural passion for creativity and self-expression. Her mother’s influence in the fashion industry played a significant role in shaping Sally’s distinctive sense of style and confidence, which later became part of her Hollywood persona.
Marriages and Personal Relationships
Sally Kirkland’s personal life was as eventful as her career, though she largely kept it private. The actress was married twice during her lifetime.
As per reports, her first marriage was to musician Michael R. Jarrett in the mid-1970s, but the relationship ended in divorce within a year. Later, in the 1980s, she married Mark Hebert, a jazz producer, though that marriage also ended after a short time.
Despite her marriages, Sally never had any children. As per reports, her friends and colleagues often described her as deeply devoted to her craft and spiritual life, sometimes at the expense of building a traditional family. Those close to her said she considered her students, colleagues, and spiritual community as her “chosen family.”
