Bunny Levine, a former school librarian who launched a acting career later in life with memorable turns in “Gilmore Girls” and “La La Land,” died on August 20 at age 97, according to her manager Brandon Kjar. Levine passed away peacefully in her sleep at her home in Tarzana, California, leaving behind a legacy that spanned two distinct and successful professions.
From Education to Hollywood: The Life and Career of Bunny Levine
Born on December 22, 1928, in East Orange, New Jersey, Levine nurtured an early dream of performing. According to her IMDb biography cited by CBS News, she initially put those aspirations on hold to pursue higher education, earning master’s degrees from New York University and Columbia University. She subsequently dedicated 25 years to working as a school librarian.
Following her retirement from education, Levine returned to her passion for performance by auditioning for film and television roles. Her television credits include appearances on “Gilmore Girls,” “Law & Order,” “Raising Hope,” and the final season of “The Upshaws,” which aired in 2026. On the film side, she appeared in Damien Chazelle’s musical “La La Land,” Michael Angarano’s “Sacramento,” “Thelma,” and the 2023 feature “The Invisible Raptor,” alongside work in “The Cure.”
Legacy in the Acting Community and Final Projects
Beyond her screen work, Levine made a lasting impact on fellow performers. In 1991, she and her husband of 53 years, Bernie Levine, founded Actors Connection in New York City, an organization designed to help actors navigate the industry. “Her passion for helping actors has launched countless careers,” the organization stated following her death, thanking her for creating a vibrant community.
Levine maintained an active schedule late into her life. According to her manager Brandon Kjar, she continued auditioning for roles and completed her final acting work as recently as June. Her agent, Mike Eisenstadt, remembered her to CBS News, stating, “She was a great and fearless actress and such a nice lady. What a full life. She will be missed.” Levine’s family added in a statement that she “inspired affection and admiration in many people with her work in education and performance.” She is survived by her children, Marty, Francie, and Joe, and her grandchildren, Robin and Jeffrey.
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