Superman actress Valerie Perrine dies at 82 – her last wish revealed
Valerie Perrine, the Las Vegas showgirl who rose to become an Oscar-nominated actress, has died at the age of 82.
She passed away Monday morning after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.
Her death was confirmed by close friend Stacey Souther, director of the 2019 documentary Valerie, which chronicled the actress’ health struggles.
“It is with deep sadness that I share the heartbreaking news that Valerie has passed away,” Souther wrote on social media. “She faced Parkinson’s disease with incredible courage and compassion, never once complaining. She was a true inspiration who lived life to the fullest — and what a magnificent life it was. The world feels less beautiful without her in it.
“I love you, Valerie. I’ll see you on the other side.”
Souther also revealed that Perrine’s final wish was to be laid to rest at Hollywood Hills Forest Lawn Cemetery, noting that after more than 15 years battling Parkinson’s, her finances had been exhausted.
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From showgirl to Hollywood Star
Born in Galveston, Texas, Perrine grew up moving frequently due to her father’s military career, spending time in places like Japan and Paris.
After briefly attending the University of Arizona, she left school behind for a very different path — becoming a dancer in Las Vegas.
She quickly rose to prominence as a lead performer in the iconic Lido de Paris show at the Stardust Hotel, where she earned $800 a week and lived a fast-paced lifestyle she later openly discussed.
In the 1960s, Perrine performed up to 12 shows a week in Las Vegas.
She danced on floors and up and down stairs, in heavy costumes and topless get-ups, all while perfecting her craft. But after eight years in the desert, she knew it was time for a change.
Her transition to Hollywood happened almost by accident. During a visit to Los Angeles, an agent spotted her and asked for photos — the only one she had was from her topless showgirl costume. That image eventually landed her a screen test.
“I decided I needed a change. I moved to Hollywood,” she later said.
“She called me in and asked if I had ever acted before and I said ‘no,’” Perrine once recalled. “She arranged a screen test.”
For that audition, she stayed true to her bold personality:
“They told me to wear a bikini because they wanted to see what my body looked like. I didn’t have a bikini. I wore my G-string and that was it.”
Her confidence paid off, and she quickly landed roles in films like The Last American Hero.
“Acting wasn’t something I pursued. I was at a small dinner party where an agent was looking for someone to play the role… The agent saw something in me and thought I would be perfect for the part. That’s how I became an actress,” Perrine explained in 2025.
Breakthrough role and Oscar recognition
Perrine’s big breakthrough came in 1974 when she starred opposite Dustin Hoffman in Lenny, portraying Honey Harlow, the troubled wife of comedian Lenny Bruce.
The performance earned her widespread acclaim, including the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival, a BAFTA honor, and an Academy Award nomination.
She later became widely known for playing Eve Teschmacher, the assistant and love interest to Lex Luthor, in Superman (1978) and Superman II (1980), starring alongside Christopher Reeve and Gene Hackman.
Overall, Valerie had no problem being labeled a sex goddess or sex bomb—titles that might have bothered others didn’t seem to faze her. She explained her perspective in a 1975 interview with The Houston Post.
“I don’t mind doing nude parts. I won’t be a Marilyn Monroe because I don’t see myself as a piece of meat to begin with. I have a sound personal philosophy,” she said, before expanding on her thoughts.
“Of course the sex goddess thing has disadvantages. People get a certain image of you. I already have to protect myself at parties where so many people just assume they can go to bed with me. Sometimes I get embarrassed. Sometimes I get mad.”
Perrine continued acting for decades, though she stepped away from Hollywood for a time after the 1980 film Can’t Stop the Music received a poor reception. She officially retired around 2010.
Battle with Parkinson’s
In later years, Perrine went public with her Parkinson’s diagnosis, which gradually affected her mobility and independence. Her struggle was documented in the film Valerie, offering a raw look at her daily life.
Despite the challenges, she never lost her humor. In one moment from the documentary, when doctors struggled to explain her condition, she joked:
“The doctors don’t know what’s going on with me… They can’t figure it out.”
When asked what she thought it was, she replied simply:
“Karma.”
Even in the face of illness, Perrine’s wit, resilience, and larger-than-life spirit remained intact — a reflection of the fearless woman who once took Hollywood by storm.
Chicken Feet Benefits and Recipes — Why This Collagen-Rich Food Is So Popular 1
Chicken Feet
Chicken feet might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of delicious food.
But around the world…
They are considered a nutritional powerhouse.
From street food to traditional soups, this unique ingredient has been used for generations.
And now, more people are discovering the truth behind chicken feet benefits and recipes.
What Makes Chicken Feet So Unique?
Unlike other parts of the chicken, feet contain:
Skin
Cartilage
Tendons
Very little meat—but something even more valuable:
👉 Collagen
In fact, about 70% of the protein in chicken feet is collagen
This is what gives them their gelatinous texture—and their health benefits.
1. Supports Skin Health and Appearance
Collagen is essential for healthy skin.
It helps:
✔ Maintain elasticity
✔ Improve hydration
✔ Reduce signs of aging
As we age, collagen levels drop.
Eating collagen-rich foods like chicken feet may help support skin structure and appearance
2. Helps Reduce Joint Pain
Chicken feet are widely known for supporting joint health.
Why?
Because collagen plays a role in:
Cartilage repair
Joint flexibility
Reducing stiffness
Studies suggest collagen intake may help relieve joint pain, especially in conditions like osteoarthritis
3. Strengthens Bones
Collagen is also a key component of bones.
Regular intake may:
✔ Improve bone density
✔ Reduce risk of bone loss
✔ Support overall skeletal strength
This is especially important as people age
4. Provides Essential Nutrients
Even though they don’t have much meat, chicken feet still provide:
Protein
Calcium
Phosphorus
Vitamin B9 (folate)
These nutrients support:
Bone health
Cell function
Overall wellness
5. May Support Overall Health
Some research suggests collagen may also:
✔ Support heart health
✔ Improve blood sugar control
✔ Aid tissue repair
While more studies are needed, these potential benefits make chicken feet a valuable addition to a balanced diet.
Popular Chicken Feet Recipes Around the World
Chicken feet are used in many cuisines globally.
Here are some popular ways to enjoy them:
1. Dim Sum Style (Braised Chicken Feet)
A classic Chinese dish.
Chicken feet are:
Softened
Braised in soy sauce
Flavored with garlic, ginger, and spices
The result:
👉 Rich, tender, flavorful bites
2. Chicken Feet Soup
One of the healthiest options.
Adding chicken feet to soup:
✔ Boosts collagen
✔ Creates a richer broth
✔ Enhances flavor
It’s often used in bone broth recipes, which are known for their nutritional value
3. Adobo-Style Chicken Feet
A twist on a classic dish.
Cooked with:
Vinegar
Soy sauce
Garlic
This method creates a bold, savory flavor.
4. Fried Chicken Feet
For a crispy snack:
Coat in flour
Deep fry until golden
Often served with sauces—similar to chicken wings.
5. Bone Broth (Best for Health)
One of the most recommended methods.
Slow cooking chicken feet creates:
👉 A collagen-rich broth
This is:
Easy to digest
Nutrient-dense
Great for soups or sipping
How to Prepare Chicken Feet Safely
Before cooking:
✔ Clean thoroughly
✔ Remove outer skin if needed
✔ Trim nails
Proper preparation ensures:
Better taste
Safer consumption
Important Things to Consider
While chicken feet have benefits, there are some cautions:
1. Cooking Method Matters
Deep-frying can increase unhealthy fats and reduce health benefits
2. Hygiene Is Important
Always clean properly to remove dirt or contaminants
3. Small Bones
Be careful when eating—there are small bones that can pose a choking risk
Why Chicken Feet Are Becoming Popular Again
More people are turning to natural, whole foods.
Chicken feet fit perfectly into this trend because they are:
✔ Affordable
✔ Nutrient-rich
✔ Traditionally used
✔ High in collagen
And with the rise of bone broth…
They are gaining attention worldwide.
The Real Truth About Chicken Feet
Chicken feet are not just a “strange” food.
They are:
👉 A traditional, nutrient-dense ingredient
Their benefits come mainly from collagen, which supports:
Skin
Joints
Bones
But like any food…
They should be consumed as part of a balanced diet.
Final Thoughts
The truth about chicken feet benefits and recipes is simple:
They may look unusual…
But they offer real nutritional value.
From improving skin to supporting joints, they are a powerful addition to your meals—especially when prepared the right way.
And once you try them…
You might see why so many cultures have valued them for generations.
