Hollywood Legend Dalene Young Dies, Devastated Husband Shares Tribute

Renowned screenwriter Dalene Young, known for classics like ‘Little Darlings’ and ‘Cross Creek,’ passed away at 85. Her husband, director Robert Martin Carroll, confirmed she died from Alzheimer’s complications. Young was nominated for Emmy awards and recognized for her significant contributions to television film.

The film industry is in mourning following the sad news of Dalene Young’s passing. Known for her incredible storytelling abilities, she made a lasting impact on both audiences and her fellow contemporaries. At the age of 85, she succumbed on May 9 in Portland, Oregon, due to complications linked to Alzheimer’s disease, as reported by her husband, director Robert Martin Carroll.

Dalene made significant contributions to the television landscape, particularly with her work across various made-for-TV movies. Famously, she penned the coming-of-age dramedy “Little Darlings”—that showcased the talents of Tatum O’Neal and Kristy McNichol—the film remained a beloved classic. Additionally, her drama featuring Mary Steenburgen, titled “Cross Creek,” also highlighted her versatile writing skills.

Her achievements didn’t go unnoticed. Young received a Daytime Emmy nomination for co-writing the heartwarming 1999 Showtime children’s special, “Locked in Silence.” Plus, she was lauded with a Christopher Award and a nomination for the Humanitas Prize for her touching contributions to the 1992 NBC telefilm, “Jonathan: The Boy Nobody Wanted.”

Taking a stroll down memory lane, Young was regarded as one of the top writers for television films during her peak years. Carroll remarked, “In her heyday, she was arguably the top writer of made-for-television movies.” This recognition probably stemmed from the plethora of heartwarming telefilms she crafted.

Some notable works of hers also included films like “The Baby-Sitters Club,” “Baby Luv,” and powerful narratives such as “Will There Really Be a Morning?” based on actress Frances Farmer’s life story. While she had her hand in many television films, one of her most impactful notes was with the ratings success, “Dawn: Portrait of a Teenage Runaway.” This 1976 film tackled the challenging topic of teenage sexuality—a remarkable achievement for that time.

Young’s artistry extended beyond the script as well. Her last on-screen appearance featured in the 2021 indie film “Pig,” where she starred alongside Nicolas Cage. Here, she engaged in a gripping narrative about a truffle hunter on a mission, following the kidnapping of his beloved pig. Fierce and untamed, much like cinema’s wildest characters.

Survivors include her husband, aged 53, and their daughter, Eden. The legacy of Young’s storytelling will continue to resonate within the hearts of those who cherished her works, forever capturing the essence of life through her lens.

Dalene Young’s untimely passing is felt deeply within the film industry. With a career spanning decades, she garnered acclaim for her impactful storytelling across television films and screenplays. Many will remember her contributions—especially the classic “Little Darlings” and powerful dramas like “Dawn: Portrait of a Teenage Runaway.” A true Hollywood legend, she leaves behind a legacy marked by creativity and depth that will echo through time.

Original Source: www.express.co.uk