Bunny Levine dies at 97 after Hollywood career
Bunny Levine, the beloved character actress known for her memorable appearances in popular television shows and films, has died at the age of 97.
Levine’s death was announced on Thursday, August 20, with news of her passing bringing an end to a remarkable life and entertainment career that began much later than most actors. She reportedly died peacefully at her home in Tarzana, California, while she was asleep.
According to reports, authorities received a call on Thursday regarding an unresponsive person at a residence in Tarzana. Responding officials later identified the woman as Levine. Her death marked the loss of an actress who spent several decades quietly building an impressive list of television and film credits.
Before entering Hollywood, Levine had a very different professional life. She worked as a school librarian and teacher in Teaneck, New Jersey, for approximately 25 years. Acting eventually became her second career, with Levine taking her first steps into the entertainment industry when she was around 60 years old.
Despite beginning her acting journey later in life, Levine quickly established herself as a reliable character actress. She appeared in numerous well-known television productions, often playing warm, humorous or memorable supporting characters.
Among her notable credits was the hit series Gilmore Girls, where she appeared as Mrs. Thompson. She also featured in Everybody Loves Raymond, portraying a friend of Ray’s mother, Marie. Her character became memorable for repeatedly dropping things while admiring Ray’s appearance, creating one of the show’s lighter comic moments.
Extensive Hollywood career
Throughout her long acting career, Levine appeared in an impressive range of television shows. Her credits included Law & Order, Ugly Betty, Private Practice, Criminal Minds, 2 Broke Girls, Raising Hope, Southland, New Girl, The Mindy Project, Fuller House and Shameless.
She also appeared alongside actor James Van Der Beek in an episode of Friends with Better Lives. The project became another notable entry in a career that allowed Levine to work across different genres and alongside numerous established performers.
One of her most recognizable movie appearances came in the Oscar-winning musical La La Land. Released in 2016 and starring Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone, the film featured Levine as a movie theatre cashier.
Although many viewers may not have known her name, Levine’s ability to bring authenticity and personality to smaller roles made her a familiar face across television and film.
Bunny Levine reflected on acting
In a past interview, Levine opened up about her decision to pursue acting later in life. She suggested that the desire to perform could be difficult to explain, describing it as something that simply exists within a person.
Levine also explained that she continued working on her craft rather than waiting for a single defining moment to transform her career. She studied, practiced and continued trying to improve, eventually developing a successful career that lasted for decades.
Her journey was particularly remarkable because she entered the entertainment world at an age when many people are already considering retirement. Instead, Levine began a new chapter and went on to appear in dozens of productions.
Family remembers late actress
Levine is survived by five immediate family members. Her surviving loved ones include her three children, Marty, Francie and Joe, as well as her two grandchildren.
Her death marks the end of an extraordinary journey from educator and librarian to a familiar face on Hollywood screens. Bunny Levine’s career serves as a reminder that it is never too late to pursue a passion, and her memorable supporting roles will continue to be part of the television and film projects she helped bring to life.
