Big hair was a thing back in the 80s, and few women wore it better than Amy Irving. She had long, dark, curly hair and looked pretty amazing. You can see that in the video and photo below.
She sported that look in one of her best films, “Crossing Delancey,” a 1988 romantic comedy in which she starred opposite Peter Reigart.
Amy Irving grew up in a family deeply rooted in the arts, which probably influenced her path into acting. Her career took off in the 1970s, with her film debut in “Carrie” (1976), directed by Brian De Palma. Her performance as Sue Snell in this horror classic earned her widespread recognition. She continued to build her career with a variety of roles in both film and television. Notably, Amy received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role in “Yentl” (1983), alongside Barbra Streisand.
Amy is also a gifted singer, a skill she showcased in “Yentl” and other projects. Her versatility as an actress is evident throughout her long acting career, which includes roles in dramas, comedies, and thrillers. Some of her other notable films include “The Fury” (1978) and “Traffic” (2000).
In addition to her film career, Amy has made significant contributions to theater. She has appeared in Broadway productions and has been recognized for her stage work, including a nomination for a Drama Desk Award.
Amy was previously married to director Steven Spielberg, with whom she has a son.
Amy Irving in the Movies
“Carrie” (1976)
Amy Irving’s nuanced performance in “Carrie” helped establish her as a talented actress capable of delivering multifaceted and compelling characters. Amy plays Sue Snell who is portrayed as a complex character in the story. Initially, she is part of the popular crowd at school and participates in the cruel taunting of Carrie White (Sissy Spacek). However, Sue’s character undergoes a significant transformation throughout the film. Amy’s portrayal of Sue Snell brings depth to the character, effectively capturing her transition from thoughtless teenager to a more empathetic and conscientious individual. Her performance adds a layer of complexity to the film, highlighting the themes of guilt, redemption, and the consequences of bullying.
“Crossing Delancy” (1988)
Amy Irving starred as the lead character, Isabelle “Izzy” Grossman. Izzy is a young, single Jewish woman living in New York City, working in a prestigious independent bookstore and aspiring to a literary lifestyle. She is intelligent, ambitious, and deeply invested in the sophisticated, intellectual world of Manhattan’s literary scene. Izzy’s character is at a crossroads in her life, caught between her modern, independent lifestyle and the traditional values of her Jewish heritage. Her grandmother, who is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Jewish community on the Lower East Side, decides to hire a matchmaker to set Izzy up with Sam Posner, a pickle vendor played by Peter Riegert. “Crossing Delancey” is a fantastic romantic comedy with both Amy and Riegert delivering stellar performances.
Amy Irving on Video
Amy Irving discusses “Crossing Delancey”
Here’s a great interview with Amy and Bobbie Wygant. She looks stunning in the video.