Adrienne Shelly

Adrienne Shelly (June 24, 1966 – November 1, 2006) was an American actress, film director, and screenwriter. She gained recognition for her roles in independent films like The Unbelievable Truth (1989) and Trust (1990), both directed by Hal Hartley. Shelly also wrote, co-starred in, and directed the posthumously-released film Waitress (2007), which later became a Broadway show. Her death in 2006, initially believed to be suicide, was later re-evaluated, resulting in a conviction of first-degree manslaughter. In her honor, the Adrienne Shelly Foundation was established, providing scholarships, grants, and living stipends to artists. The Women Film Critics Circle presents the annual Adrienne Shelly Award to a film that strongly opposes violence against women.