Bunny Levine, the veteran character actress known for appearances in popular productions including Gilmore Girls and La La Land, has died at the age of 97. According to reports, Levine died peacefully in her sleep on Thursday at her home in Tarzana, California. Police who responded to a report of an unresponsive person said her death appeared to have been from natural causes.
Levine’s journey to Hollywood was unusual. Before becoming an actress, she worked as a school librarian and teacher in Teaneck, New Jersey, for around 25 years. She began pursuing acting professionally in the late 1980s, when she was already approaching 60.
Despite starting her entertainment career later in life, Levine became a familiar face on television and in films. She appeared in several well-known shows, including Gilmore Girls, where she played Mrs. Thompson, and Everybody Loves Raymond, in which she portrayed a friend of Ray’s mother, Marie.
Her film credits also included the Oscar-winning musical La La Land. In later years, Levine continued acting and appeared at the 2024 Los Angeles premiere of Thelma.
Levine’s career is a reminder that it is never too late to pursue a new passion. After decades in education, she successfully built a second career in entertainment and remained active in Hollywood well into her later years. Her work across television and film leaves behind a memorable legacy.