Piper Laurie is a venerable actress whose career spanned several decades, showcasing her versatility and profound emotional depth. Here we take a moment to rank some of her best performances over the years.

1.Carrie (1976) – Margaret White

Laurie’s bone-chilling portrayal of Margaret White, the oppressive and fanatic mother in Stephen King’s “Carrie,” earned her an Academy Award nomination. Her intense performance is often cited as one of the most memorable aspects of this horror classic.

2.The Hustler (1961) – Sarah Packard

In “The Hustler,” Piper Laurie gives a heart-wrenching performance as Sarah Packard, the troubled love interest of Paul Newman’s “Fast” Eddie Felson. The role garnered her a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actress, solidifying her place as one of Hollywood’s great talents.

3.Children of a Lesser God (1986) – Mrs. Norman

Although a supporting role, Piper Laurie delivered a powerful depiction of Mrs. Norman, the estranged mother of Marlee Matlin’s character Sarah. Her character’s complex feelings towards her daughter’s deafness added significant emotional layers to the film.

4.Twin Peaks (1990-1991; 2017) – Catherine Martell

In the cult TV series “Twin Peaks,” Laurie played the scheming Catherine Martell to perfection, earning her a Golden Globe for her performance in this David Lynch classic. Remarkably, she also returned to reprise her role in the 2017 revival series.

5.Promise (1986) – Annie Gilbert

Starring alongside James Garner and James Woods in “Promise,” Piper Laurie brilliantly portrays Annie Gilbert, the sister caught between her brother’s health issues and another demanding life commitment. This television movie netted her an Emmy award for her outstanding work.

These performances not only highlight Piper Laurie’s acting prowess but also reflect the enduring impact she has had on audiences and filmmakers alike throughout her career.