Actress Barbara Barrie, 95, Dies Under New York’s Medical Aid in Dying Law
Oscar-nominated actress Barbara Barrie died at age 95 in New York City after choosing medically assisted suicide, a practice she had publicly supported.
Veteran actress Barbara Barrie, 95, died on Oct. 28 at her New York City home after electing to end her life under New York State’s Medical Aid in Dying law, which she had long advocated. Her agent Gary Gersh confirmed the manner of her passing to USA TODAY.
Barrie, known for her Oscar-nominated supporting role in the 1979 film "Breaking Away," had been diagnosed with terminal cancer and previously disclosed a chronic lung condition, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. In a 2014 statement she said, "I have a very full, active life, but what lies ahead is unknown and yet known at the same time. I am living full steam ahead and am now trying to help other people do the same."
The Medical Aid in Dying Act, signed by Gov. Kathy Hochul in February, permits terminally ill adults with a prognosis of six months or less to request life-ending medication, subject to strict safeguards.
Barrie’s career spanned film, television and stage. She earned a best supporting actress Oscar nomination for "Breaking Away," a Tony nomination for the original Broadway production of Stephen Sondheim’s "Company," and multiple Emmy nominations for television work, including the sitcom "Suddenly Susan" and guest roles on "Law & Order" series. Her film credits included "One Potato, Two Potato," "The Six Wives of Henry Lefay" and "Private Benjamin."
Barrie is survived by her daughter Jane Harnick.