Shelley Duvall, aged 71, known for her iconic role as Wendy Torrance alongside Jack Nicholson in Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining, recently spoke out in a rare interview about the challenges she faced during the production of the psychological thriller.

The Shining, a 1980 classic horror film, is renowned for its spine-chilling storyline and unforgettable performances.

Duvall, who portrayed Wendy Torrance, confessed that she endured emotional turmoil on set, often spending days in tears while filming the movie, which had an extensive shooting schedule spanning 56 weeks.

In this cinematic masterpiece, based on Stephen King’s novel, Duvall’s character, Wendy Torrance, grapples with the haunting events unfolding in a remote hotel, ultimately succumbing to the chaos orchestrated by her husband, Jack Torrance, played by Jack Nicholson.

Under the meticulous direction of Stanley Kubrick, the film demanded intense dedication from the actors, with long hours stretching up to 16 hours a day, six days a week.

Duvall recounted the arduous process of shooting scenes repeatedly, sometimes up to 35 takes before achieving the desired outcome, pushing her both physically and emotionally.

To immerse herself in the role of a terrified wife and mother, Duvall resorted to various methods, such as listening to melancholic songs on a Sony Walkman or delving into sorrowful memories to evoke genuine emotions necessary for her performance.

Despite her commitment to the craft, Duvall admitted that the constant emotional strain took a toll on her well-being, leading her body to rebel against the daily demands of shedding tears on cue.

The internal struggle she faced to maintain the required emotional intensity was a challenging aspect of her portrayal of Wendy Torrance.

Reflecting on her experience, Duvall revealed the internal conflict she felt each Monday morning, dreading the anticipated emotional scenes scheduled for the day.

Despite the overwhelming pressure, she found the strength to fulfill her obligations, even when she doubted her ability to continue.

In a candid interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Duvall expressed her astonishment at her own resilience during the grueling filming process, acknowledging Jack Nicholson’s similar sentiments towards her unwavering determination.

The immense effort she invested in embodying Wendy Torrance’s anguish left a lasting impact on her psyche.

Looking back on the production of The Shining, Duvall described the experience as both unbearable and strangely rewarding.

Her dedication to the role showcased her commitment to her craft, even in the face of daunting challenges that tested her emotional endurance.

Having stepped away from acting since 2002 and embracing a quieter life in Texas for over two decades, Duvall’s decision to share her mental health struggles in 2016 shed light on the inner turmoil she faced during her time in the spotlight.