The world recently bid farewell to a beloved actress, Linda Lee Sylvander, who was widely known by her stage name, Linda Haynes. At the age of 75, Linda passed away on July 17 in Summerville, South Carolina. Although her death was only recently brought to public attention, her family revealed that she passed away “peacefully.” Born on November 4, 1947, in Miami, FL, Linda had a successful acting career from the late 1960s until the early 1980s, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry.
A Journey in the Film Industry
As a committed member of The Actor’s Studio, Linda Haynes entered the film scene with her debut role as Dr. Anne Barton in the 1969 Japanese sci-fi monster film, Latitude Zero. This marked the beginning of her remarkable journey, during which she showcased her incredible talent in various movies, including Coffy (1973) and The Nickel Ride (1974). However, it was in the revenge thriller Rolling Thunder (1977) where Linda truly shone. She portrayed a world-weary barmaid and captivated audiences with her exceptional performance.
A Versatile Actress
Following her success in Rolling Thunder, Linda Haynes continued to demonstrate her versatility as an actress by taking on diverse roles. In the women-in-prison flick, Human Experiments (1979), she delivered a captivating portrayal. Shortly after, Linda transitioned smoothly into yet another prison film, Brubaker (1980), proving her ability to adapt effortlessly to different genres.
Transition and Discovering New Paths
After wrapping up her acting career with the made-for-TV movie Guyana Tragedy: The Story of Jim Jones (1980), Linda made an unexpected shift in her professional life. She made a conscious choice to leave acting behind and began working as a legal secretary for a law firm in Florida. This courageous decision displayed her determination to explore new paths and seek fulfillment beyond the bright lights of Hollywood.
Remembering Linda Haynes’ Work
Director Quentin Tarantino praised Linda Haynes’ outstanding performance in Rolling Thunder, referring to her character, Linda Forchet, as his favorite female character in a Paul Schrader movie. He commended her natural ability to exude a certain allure, comparing her to the renowned actress Ava Gardner. Tarantino’s praise is a testament to Linda’s talent and the impact she made on fellow industry professionals.
A Lasting Legacy
Linda Haynes leaves behind a loving family that includes her son, Gregory Leif Sylvander, her daughter-in-law, Courtney Lynn Sylvander, and her beloved grandchildren, James Riley Sylvander and Amelia Grace Sylvander. Additionally, she is survived by her cherished pets, including cats named Bingo and Bluey, as well as dogs named Rex, Biggie, and Raya.
In memory of Linda Haynes, let us celebrate the remarkable career of a truly iconic actress. Her versatile performances and dedication to her craft will forever be remembered, leaving an indelible mark on the world of acting. Linda’s legacy serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors and reminds us all to pursue our passions fearlessly.