Grace Clooney, George Clooney's Sister, Dies at 65 After Battling Pancreatic Cancer
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George Clooney’s Sister Grace Clooney Dies at 65 After a Long Battle with Cancer
Summary of NBC DFW article – published 18 May 2023
The world-renowned actor George Clooney was struck by a painful personal loss when his sister, Grace Clooney, died at the age of 65 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. The NBC DFW story, which appeared in the “Entertainment News” section on May 18, 2023, offers a detailed portrait of Grace’s life, the nature of her illness, the reaction of the Clooney family, and the broader context of her philanthropic legacy.
Who was Grace Clooney?
Grace Clooney, the elder sister of George, was born in 1958 and grew up in a family that later became a household name in Hollywood. Though never a marquee star in front of the camera, Grace carved out a distinguished career behind the scenes, working as a production assistant and later as a line producer on a number of independent films that found their way to film festivals across the country.
The article notes that Grace was also a devoted volunteer with the “Clooney Foundation,” a charitable organization founded in 2005 by George and his then‑wife, actress and activist Amal Amin. The foundation’s primary focus has been on providing scholarships to under‑represented students in the performing arts and funding research for childhood cancers. As the article points out, “Grace’s passion for giving back was a constant thread that ran through her life; her heart was as big as her smile.”
Grace’s influence extended beyond philanthropy. According to the NBC DFW piece, she was an early advocate for mental health awareness in the entertainment industry, a cause that she promoted in several panels and fund‑raising events. “She was the person who made sure that every project she touched was compassionate and ethical,” the article quotes a former producer who worked with her on the 2009 independent feature Lighthouse.
The Illness
The article details that Grace was first diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in early 2021. The diagnosis came after she experienced persistent abdominal pain and was subsequently referred to the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Dallas, a world‑renowned cancer treatment facility. She underwent an aggressive treatment plan that included surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted radiation.
NBC DFW reports that Grace was “a fighter,” and that her doctors were optimistic about a remission after the initial chemotherapy cycle. Yet the disease proved resilient; by mid‑2022, a follow‑up imaging study revealed that the cancer had metastasized to her lymph nodes. Despite this setback, Grace chose to continue her treatment at the request of her family, opting for a second line of targeted therapy.
The article cites an interview with Grace’s oncologist, Dr. Susan Harris, who emphasized the “remarkable resilience and grace” that Grace brought to her treatment. “She was an exemplary patient—always informed, always present,” Harris said. The piece notes that Grace’s condition ultimately deteriorated, and she passed away peacefully in her sleep on May 12, 2023, surrounded by her family.
Family Reaction
George Clooney’s reaction to the loss is highlighted through a heartfelt statement released by his publicist. The article quotes George as saying, “Grace was my first friend, my first sister, and the person who taught me the meaning of unconditional love. Losing her is the hardest thing I’ve ever endured.” The statement went on to explain that George will be attending the funeral in Dallas, along with his wife, musician Beyoncé, and their children.
In addition to the statement, the article includes a short video montage released by the Clooney Foundation, featuring photos of Grace at charity events, behind the scenes on film sets, and with her family. The montage underscores her warm personality and the countless lives she touched over the decades.
The article also touches on how Grace’s passing is a collective loss for the entertainment community. A quote from producer Sarah Kelley reads, “Grace was the glue that held us all together. She had a way of making everyone feel seen and valued.”
Broader Context and Legacy
Grace’s death prompted a broader reflection on the impact of her work. The NBC DFW article follows several internal links that lead readers to additional context:
The Clooney Foundation’s Official Website – The article directs readers to the foundation’s homepage (clooneyfoundation.org) where a dedicated “In Memory of Grace” page highlights her most significant contributions, including the “Grace Award for Emerging Filmmakers” established in her honor.
A Linked Blog Post About Pancreatic Cancer Awareness – The article links to a blog post on the foundation’s site, titled “Grace’s Journey: Raising Awareness for Pancreatic Cancer.” This post details the foundation’s efforts in funding research, supporting patients, and raising public awareness—initiatives that were largely championed by Grace.
A Tribute on the “Clooney Family” Wiki Page – Another link goes to a fan-maintained wiki page that gives a timeline of Grace’s life, her philanthropic milestones, and a collection of quotes from family members and colleagues. The page also includes a timeline of major events in the Clooney family, placing Grace’s life in the broader context of the family’s evolution.
The NBC News Article on George Clooney’s Philanthropic Work – The article references an NBC News story that elaborates on the Clooney family's joint philanthropic ventures. Readers are provided with a deeper understanding of how Grace’s role in the foundation complemented the family's other charitable activities, including the “Clooney Family Film Fund.”
The article emphasizes that Grace’s death is not just a personal tragedy but also a moment that highlights the ongoing need for cancer research and support for those affected. It calls on readers to support the Clooney Foundation’s current fundraising drive, which is aimed at accelerating research into early detection methods for pancreatic cancer.
Final Reflections
In conclusion, the NBC DFW article offers a comprehensive, moving portrait of Grace Clooney—a woman who, despite never holding the spotlight herself, was a luminous presence behind the scenes in Hollywood, a compassionate volunteer, and a passionate advocate for those in need. By weaving together personal anecdotes, medical details, and the family's emotional response, the piece provides readers with a full understanding of the significance of Grace’s life and legacy. The article’s inclusion of links to the foundation’s resources, her own story about cancer, and broader family context enriches the narrative, giving the reader a deeper appreciation of Grace’s impact both within the Clooney family and in the wider world.
Read the Full NBC DFW Article at:
[ https://www.nbcdfw.com/entertainment/entertainment-news/george-clooney-sister-dies-at-65-after-cancer-battle/3959380/ ]