Actress Evans Evans, Best Known for “Bonnie and Clyde,” Passes Away at 91

Evans Evans, the beloved actress best known for her role in the iconic film “Bonnie and Clyde,” has passed away at the age of 91. She died on June 16 in Sherman Oaks, California, as confirmed by a public obituary. While the specific cause of her death was not disclosed, her passing marks the end of an era in Hollywood.

Born in Bluefield, West Virginia, on November 26, 1932, Evans Evans had a remarkable career spanning five decades. She was married to director John Frankenheimer from 1963 until his death in 2002. In fact, she even appeared in two of his films, “Grand Prix” in 1966 and “Dead Bang” in 1989. It’s worth noting that she also went by the name Evans Frankenheimer throughout her career.

One of Evans Evans’ most memorable roles was that of Velma Davis, the kidnap victim in “Bonnie and Clyde” released in 1967. Starring alongside Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway, her character shares a poignant moment with Gene Wilder, who made his big screen debut in the film. As they kiss, they witness thieves stealing Eugene’s car. This event sets off a chain of events that leads to their abduction by Bonnie, Clyde, and their gang.

Despite her notable role in “Bonnie and Clyde,” Evans Evans had a diverse acting career that extended beyond the silver screen. She appeared in popular television shows such as “The Donna Reed Show,” “The Twilight Zone,” “Gunsmoke,” and “Alfred Hitchcock Presents.” Additionally, she had a successful Broadway career during the ’50s and ’60s, starring in productions like “The Dark at the Top of the Stairs,” “A Distant Bell,” and “The 49th Cousin.” In later years, she continued to impress audiences with performances in “The Iceman Cometh,” “Prophecy,” and “Are You Afraid of the Dark?”

In a 2016 interview with Criterion, Evans Evans shared her experiences during the press tour for “The Manchurian Candidate,” a film directed by her late husband. She revealed that she found herself on women’s television interview shows and ladies club events, which were popular across the country at the time. Despite initially avoiding such events, she grew adept at discussing the movie and its cast. It is evident that her talent and charm extended beyond the screen.

Throughout her life, Evans Evans formed close friendships in the entertainment industry. During the same 2016 interview, she spoke fondly of Angela Lansbury, referring to her as a “very, very dear friend.” This demonstrates the deep connections she made in her career.

While further details about Evans Evans’ survivors are not immediately available, her legacy lives on through her impressive body of work. Her performances on stage and screen captivated audiences and solidified her place in Hollywood history. As we bid farewell to this remarkable actress, we remember her contributions to the world of entertainment and cherish the memories she has left behind.