Remembering a Hollywood legend Penny Marshall who passed away at 75

Comedy has lost one of its greatest talents, the brilliant director and comedienne, Penny Marshall.

Penny Marshall passed away on the evening of December 17, 2018, in her Hollywood home. The director succumbed to complications of diabetes, and the news of her demise has shaken the movie community.

As Marshall's admirers, we are remembering this extraordinary woman, her life and her legacy.

A FEROCIOUS TALENT AND A LOVE OF COMEDY

Fans of comedy will remember Marshall's hilarious performances as Laverne in the 70s comedy "Laverne & Shirley," a spin-off of the iconic "Happy Days."

It was the series that would reveal Marshall's incredible comedic talent to the world, and open the doors for the next step in her career: Directing.

Penny Marshall's true legacy was the gift of laughter, and her achievements in film are a lasting monument to her colossal talent.

HER SUCCESS HID HER PERSONAL PAIN

Though Marshall's career and her directorial triumphs were common knowledge, few knew that the woman who quickly became one of Hollywood's most successful directors had had a harsh life, and had struggled with insecurity and drug addiction.

PENNY MARSHALL'S BIOGRAPHY WAS A REVELATION

In 2012, Marshall published her autobiography, "My Mother Was Nuts". In her book, Marshall opened up about her problems, her relationships and her dark days.

MARSHALL'S BATTLE WITH CANCER

One of the most startling revelations in the book was that Marshall had had a shotgun wedding. She had fallen pregnant in college and was a mother at 19.

Marshall opened up about her battle with lung and brain cancer in 2009, her remission and recovery. More painful was her recovery from alcohol and drug abuse, a struggle she shared with her best friend, Carrie Fisher.

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Marshall was Fisher's daughter's godmother and the two women, who shared an October birthday, often had joint birthday parties. Marshall is survived by her daughter, actress Tracy Reiner, 54, and five grandchildren.

Penny Marshall's true legacy was the gift of laughter, and her achievements in film are a lasting monument to her colossal talent. She will be sorely missed.

In a related story, Hollywood actress and director Penny Marshall passed away at 75.