Shirley Temple Black has died at 85 of natural causes. The child star most associated with the image of Hollywood for decades and a major influence on American culture has passed away. Shirley starred in movies throughout the 30’s and retired from acting in 1950 at the age of 21. She went on to enjoy a long second marriage to Charles Black as well as a successful diplomatic career.
A family statement read: “We announce with great sadness that ambassador Shirley Temple Black, former Hollywood child star and forever ‘America’s little darling’ peacefully passed away at her Woodside, California, home from natural causes, at the age of 85, on February 10, 2014 at 10:57pm (6.57 GMT).
“She was surrounded by her family and caregivers.
“We salute her for a life of remarkable achievements as an actor, as a diplomat, and most importantly as our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and adored wife for fifty-five years of the late and much-missed Charles Alden Black.”
She is survived by her children Susan, Charlie Jr, and Lori, granddaughter Teresa and great-granddaughters Lily and Emma.
