Age and status at death
Shirley Temple died on February 10, 2014, at the age of 85. The cause of death was natural causes, attributed to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). She was born on April 23, 1928, in Santa Monica, California. Her death was widely reported in reliable news outlets and confirmed by family statements. This status clarifier presents verified details, context, and common points of confusion about her age and circumstances at death.
Confirmed facts and key dates
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Date of birth | April 23, 1928 | Birth certificate, biographies |
| Date of death | February 10, 2014 | Obituaries, public records |
| Age at death | 85 years | Calculated from confirmed dates |
| Place of death | Woodside, California, USA | Family statements and reports |
| Cause of death | Natural causes (COPD) | Coroner/medical reports, family |
Public curiosity and confusion
Because Shirley Temple became a global icon as a child, occasional retrospective questions arise about her later life and age at death. These are often rooted in genuine interest rather than misinformation. However, some informal speculation can blur the facts. This section addresses common points of confusion by contrasting speculative ideas with documented records. By focusing on authoritative sources, we separate narrative embellishment from the verified status of her age and circumstances at death.
Speculation vs evidence
- Rumor: She was much older or had disappeared from public view. Evidence: Continuous public appearances and official records confirm her identity and age.
- Rumor: The cause of death was misrepresented. Evidence: Official death certificates and family statements list COPD as the cause.
- Rumor: She died at a significantly different age. Evidence: Calculations from April 1928 to February 2014 yield 85, widely reported and accepted.
Biographical context and legacy
Shirley Temple was a defining child star of the 1030s and 1940s, known for films like Bright Eyes and The Little Princess. After retiring from acting in 1949, she built a notable second career in diplomacy, serving as U.S. Ambassador to Ghana and later to Czechoslovakia. Her transition from entertainment to public service reshaped perceptions of former child stars. Her death at 85 marked the end of a legacy that combined screen charisma with sustained civic contribution.
Common questions and clarifications
People often wonder how such a prominent figure could be misunderstood in later life. Clarifications include recognizing that she maintained a private life while occasionally engaging in public events and interviews. Understanding her age and status at death helps contextualize the broader narrative of a career that evolved far beyond childhood fame. Reliable sources, including obituaries and official statements, provide consistent details that remain stable over time.
Reliable sourcing and transparency
Information presented here is drawn from authoritative outlets such as major newspapers, official obituaries, and family communications. Dates, cause of death, and age are cross-referenced to ensure accuracy. Transparency about sources and methods supports trust and long-term usefulness. By focusing on documented records, this status clarifier remains durable and relevant for future inquiries.