Shirley Douglas - Actor Profile

Shirley Douglas

Acting
Updated: May 09, 2026
21Total Films
9.5 Highest Rated
Born: Apr 2, 1934
Birth Place: Weyburn, Saskatchewan, Canada

About Shirley Douglas

Shirley Douglas, with a start in church drama and music, pursued acting seriously from a young age. After studies in London, she acted in British theatre and TV. Her marriage to Donald Sutherland bore twins, Kiefer and Rachel Sutherland. Engaging in American protest movements in the late '60s and '70s, she advocated for various causes, eventually returning to Canada in 1977. Her career flourished in film, TV, and theatre, embodying strong characters like Hagar Shipley in "The Stone Angel" and Marilla in "Anne of Green Gables." Known for her activism, she ardently supported Canada's healthcare system, advocating for its accessibility. Notably, she won a Gemini Award for "Shadow Lake" in 2000 and received an honorary doctorate from Ryerson Polytechnic University and the Diamond Award from the Variety Club. Shirley's father was Tommy Douglas, renowned for founding Canada’s healthcare system.

Shirley Douglas Movies & Career Overview

The filmography of Shirley Douglas reflects a career marked by diverse experimentation. Across 21 major appearances, the actor has built a reputation through performances in multiple genres and storytelling styles.

Dominant Genre

A large portion of Shirley Douglas's work falls within the Drama genre, where audiences tend to respond most strongly to their on-screen presence.

Success Ratio

Approximately 29% of Shirley Douglas's films maintain ratings above 6.5, indicating a consistent level of audience approval.

One of the most highly rated entries in their career remains Tommy Douglas: Keeper of the Flame, which stands out as a key performance.

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Best Shirley Douglas Movies Ranked

Must-watch hits from Shirley Douglas's career based on audience ratings.

Full Filmography

Every movie Shirley Douglas has appeared in, with audience ratings and verdicts.

YearMovieCharacterSuccessMore
2004 Sarah McLachlan: A Life of Music Narrator (voice) Flop Similar →
2002 The Christmas Shoes Ellen Layton Hit Similar →
2000 The Law of Enclosures Mya Flop Similar →
2000 A House Divided Elizabeth Dickson Hit Similar →
1999 Woman Wanted Peg Average Similar →
1999 Shadow Lake Margaret Richards Flop Similar →
1998 Barney's Great Adventure Grandma Flop Similar →
1996 Flash Gordon: Marooned on Mongo Additional Voices (voice) Flop Similar →
1995 Johnny's Girl Mrs. Hardwick Flop Similar →
1995 Redwood Curtain Schyler Noyes Hit Similar →
1994 Mesmer Duchess Dubarry Average Similar →
1993 Shattered Trust: The Shari Karney Story Vivian Karney Flop Similar →
1992 The Shower Marie Flop Similar →
1988 Shadow Dancing Nicole Flop Similar →
1988 Dead Ringers Laura Hit Similar →
1986 Really Weird Tales Edna Besley (segment "Cursed With Charisma") Flop Similar →
1986 Loose Ends Wife Flop Similar →
1986 Tommy Douglas: Keeper of the Flame self Super Hit Similar →
1985 Turning to Stone Lena Flop Similar →
1983 The Wars Mrs. Lawson Flop Similar →
1962 Lolita Mrs. Starch Hit Similar →

Shirley Douglas - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best movie of Shirley Douglas?

According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Shirley Douglas is "Tommy Douglas: Keeper of the Flame" with a rating of 9.5/10.

How many movies has Shirley Douglas acted in?

Shirley Douglas has been featured in at least 21 major films throughout their career.

What are some other popular movies by Shirley Douglas?

Other notable films include "Lolita", "Dead Ringers", and "The Christmas Shoes".

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