From her breakout role in the steamy 1981 noir 'Body Heat,' Kathleen Turner became one of the defining actresses of the 1980s. Over the decades, Turner’s career has spanned film, theater, and television, earning her acclaim on Broadway and memorable guest roles on beloved shows such as 'Friends' and 'Californication.'
Now, after taking time away from the big screen and after overcoming health issues, the veteran actress is back. In her own words, she is "getting stronger," though at times she's had to deal with "excruciating pain." So, what is the disease that nearly ended the career of one of Hollywood's best-known actresses?
Click through for an appreciation of Kathleen Turner's life and work, including some of her most celebrated film appearances.