Bud Cort final years were a blend of quiet privacy and a long-term. Battle with health issues that stemmed from a series of unfortunate events throughout his life. As of his passing on February 11, 2026, we have. A clearer picture of what those final days and years looked like.
The Cause of Death and Final Days
Bud Cort passed away at an assisted living facility in Norwalk, Connecticut, at the age of 77.
- His longtime friend and producer confirmed his death. Dorian Hannaway, who stated he died from complications of pneumonia following a “lengthy illness.”
- Assisted Living: He had been living in a care facility for some time. Where he was receiving medical attention for his declining health.
Health Struggles in the Later Years
Physical challenges significantly affected Bud’s final decade, limiting his ability to work:
- The 2011 Accident: While many remember his horrific car crash in 1979 (which. Required plastic surgery and broke multiple bones), he suffered another major accident in 2011.In this incident, the accident nearly severed his arm, leaving him with permanent mobility issues.
- Bud often described his experience in Harold and Maude as both a blessing and a curse. In his final years, he felt the industry had moved on from him, partly due to his physical limitations and partly. Because he refused to play “weirdo” caricatures that didn’t meet his artistic standards.
- Move to the East Coast: He eventually left the Hollywood scene for the Connecticut/New. York area to be closer to his family, including his sisters and brother.
His Mindset and Legacy
Despite the physical pain and the “chequered life” he admitted to having, Bud remained a sharp, artistic soul until the end.
- A “Savant” of Art: Friends described him as someone who lived and breathed theater and film history. He spent much of his later time engaging with his own legacy, occasionally participating in retrospectives or Q&As for Harold and Maude when his health permitted.
- Financial & Career Reflection: In interviews toward the end of his life (such as with The Guardian), he expressed some bitterness toward major studios regarding residuals and how his career was handled after his early 70s peak, but he always maintained a deep love for the craft of acting itself.
Family and Survivors
Bud leaves behind a large extended family, including his brother Joseph Cox and his sisters Kerry, Tracy, and Shelly. Some reports mention his wife, Vickie, and their daughters, indicating that while he was a very private man, he was surrounded by family support in his transition.