Born in Chicago, she was a talented actress who gained prominence in the early 1970s. Her breakthrough role came with "Diary of a Mad Housewife" (1970), earning her an Academy Award nomination and a Golden Globe win. Known for her intense and authentic performances, she later appeared in films like "Pale Rider" and "Blue Sky." Balancing her career with personal life, she had a son with musician Neil Young. Her commitment to her craft left a lasting impact on cinema before her passing in 2004.