Lorna Raver, the talented actress known for her chilling role as Mrs. Ganush in Drag Me to Hell, has passed away at 81. Her death was reported in the “in memoriam” section of the Screen Actors Guild’s latest magazine, marking a somber moment in the industry.
Raver is best remembered for her standout performance in the 2009 horror film directed by Sam Raimi. This film premiered at Cannes and grossed over $90 million worldwide. In it, Raver portrayed a character who curses a bank teller, played by Alison Lohman. Raimi described Drag Me to Hell as a story about the consequences of making sinful choices out of greed.
Critics praised her memorable performance. Jeannette Catsoulis from The New York Times called her “gleefully disgusting,” while Peter Debruge from Variety noted Raver’s impact as a villain. Raver herself shared that the filming process was both fun and grueling, highlighting her enjoyment of working alongside Raimi.
Beyond Drag Me to Hell, Raver had notable roles in the dark comedy Freeway and the crime thriller Armored. She was also a familiar face on television, appearing in soaps like The Young and the Restless and series such as NYPD Blue and Grey’s Anatomy.
In addition to her on-screen work, Raver made her mark in off-Broadway productions and audiobook narration. Reflecting on her acting journey, she once said, “I love the chance to live multiple lives.”
Raver retired from acting in 2014 but remained a cherished figure for her contributions. Her story serves as an inspiration, challenging the notion that age limits opportunity in Hollywood.
Interestingly, her legacy coincides with a growing trend of recognizing the talents of older actors in the entertainment industry. According to a recent survey by AARP, nearly 60% of older adults believe that age should not determine one’s ability to land roles. This shift reflects a broader acceptance of diverse ages in storytelling, allowing talents like Raver to shine.
For more about her impact on film and television, you can check the detailed obituary in the Hollywood Reporter.
