Sheila Marie Ryan, a prominent American actress from the 1980s, continues to be a subject of fascination and discussion. Her fame increased when she became the second wife of James Caan, known for his role in The Godfather. However, their relationship ended and she passed away in 2012.
Sheila Marie Ryan Bio Summary
Full name: Sheila Marie Ryan
Gender: Female
Date of birth: 17 September 1952
Place of birth: Franklin Park, Illinois, United States
Date of death: 18 September 2012
Age of death: 60 years old
Place of death: Canoga Park, California, United States
Nationality: American
Ethnicity: White
Religion: Christianity
Education: East Leyden High, Franklin Park
Father: Gerard Ryan
Mother: Arlene Ryan
Siblings: 4
Sexual orientation: Straight
Marital status: (at death) Divorced
Ex-husband: James Caan
Children: 1
Occupation: Actress, model
Early Life & Education
Sheila Marie was born on 17 September 1952 in Franklin Park, Illinois, USA. Her parents were Gerard and Arlene Ryan, and she was the second of five siblings.
Her sibling, Mike Ryan, was older while she had three younger sisters. She completed her education at East Leyden High in Franklin Park in 1971. Following that, she joined a theatre program at Playhouse West in North Hollywood.
Career
In October of 1973, she graced the cover of Playboy Magazine and was also recognized for her skills as an actress and model. Her breakthrough in the film industry came with her role in the 1989 film, Road House.
Furthermore, Sheila Marie Ryan was featured in movies and TV shows such as Hunter (1984), Fertilise the Blaspheming Bombshell (1990), Lone Star Blue (1994), and Shelter from the Storm (1994).
She transitioned into a talent agent and represented renowned performers, as well as uncovering fresh faces in the film world.
Personal Life
For two years, Sheila Marie Ryan was in a romantic relationship with famed singer and songwriter Elvis Presley. She served as inspiration for many of his songs and even had a song dedicated to her called And I Love You So.
Sheila Marie Ryan also wrote books about Elvis. However, despite their connection, they did not end up getting married, as she ultimately wed someone else.
She tied the knot with James Edmund Caan, a famous American actor in film and television. He was born on March 26, 1940. Caan has starred in both leading and supporting roles in more than 100 films and TV programs.
He is known for his successful roles in films such as Hawaii Five-0, Elf, Thief, and The Sopranos. Additionally, he has received recognition for his exceptional acting abilities through nominations for the Academy, Golden Globe, and Primetime Emmy Awards.
Throughout his lifetime, James Caan entered into four marriages. In the 1960s, he wed his first wife, Dee Jay Mathis. However, after six years together, they ended their marriage and Caan eventually met Sheila through a mutual acquaintance in 1975.
They tied the knot on 12 January 1976, but their relationship quickly became turbulent, resulting in a divorce on 7 December 1977.
Sheila had a son named Scott, whom she shared with James Caan. Scott was born on August 23, 1976. Following Sheila’s divorce from her previous spouse in 1977, she received $3,000 per month for five years and was granted custody of their son.
Furthermore, James was required to pay $1,000 every month for child support until Scott turned 18 years old. Scott Caan, much like his parents, possesses great acting abilities. He has also pursued careers in music, directing, photography, and writing. His filmography includes notable works such as Hawaii Five-0 and Ocean’s Eleven.
Cause of death
After being diagnosed with cancer, Sheila Marie Ryan eventually lost her battle with the disease. The actress passed away on September 18, 2012, just one day after her 60th birthday celebration.
