Sheila Marie Ryan was a talented American actress and model who rose to fame in the 1980s and 1990s. She was best known for her roles in movies such as Road House, Lone Star Blue, and Shelter from the Storm. She was also widely recognized as the second wife of James Caan, a famous American film and television actor. However, in September 2012, she passed away due to cancer at the age of 60. Here is everything you need to know about her life, career, and death.
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Early Life and Education
Sheila Marie Ryan was born on September 17, 1952, in Franklin Park, Illinois, United States of America. Her father was Gerard Ryan, and her mother was Arlene Ryan. The actress was the second-born child in a family of five. She had an older brother, Mike Ryan, and three younger sisters.
She attended East Leyden High in Franklin Park and graduated in 1971. She then proceeded to North Hollywood’s Playhouse West, where she enrolled in a theatre course.
Career as an Actress and Model
Sheila began her career as a dancer before transitioning to acting. She appeared in several films such as Road House (1989), Lone Star Blue (1994), Shelter from the Storm (1994), and Hunter (1984). In 1973, she was also featured on the October cover of Playboy magazine according to YEN.COM.GH. She resided in the Playboy Mansion as well.
Sheila Marie Ryan on the cover of Playboy magazine in October 1973. Photo: Playboy (modified by author)
She also worked with her ex-husband James Caan in some projects, such as A Boy Called Hate (1995) and Poodle Springs (1998).
Marriage and Divorce with James Caan
Sheila Marie Ryan married James Caan, a renowned film and television actor, in 1976. The couple met in 1975 through a mutual friend and fell in love. James Caan is best known for his roles in movies such as The Godfather, Misery, and Elf.
However, their relationship wasn’t smooth, and they divorced in 1977 after only one year of marriage. According to Married Biography, their marriage was turbulent and filled with arguments and fights.
James Caan and Sheila Caan during the 45th Annual Academy Awards in Los Angeles, California, United States. Photo: Ron Galella Source: Getty Images
The couple had a son together named Scott Caan, who was born on August 23, 1976. Scott followed his parents’ footsteps and became an actor. He has gained recognition for his roles in Ocean’s Eleven as Turk Malloy and CBS TV series Hawaii Five-0 as Detective Sergeant Danny William.
Cause of Death
Sheila Marie Ryan died on September 18, 2012, in Canoga Park, California. She died of cancer according to ABTC. She was diagnosed with the disease during the peak of her acting career.
The actress took her last breath at the age of 60. Her body was buried in Oakwood Memorial Park near Lassen St Chatsworth, California.
Sheila Marie Ryan was a beautiful and talented actress and model who left behind a legacy that continues to inspire many people. She fought cancer bravely until the end. She will always be remembered for her work in film and television and her influence on those who knew her.
