Sheila Marie Ryan was an American actress and model who was best known for being the ex-wife of actor James Caan and the mother of actor Scott Caan. She also had a brief relationship with Elvis Presley in the 1970s. She appeared in several films and TV shows, such as The Incredible Hulk, Fantasy Island, and The Man Who Loved Women. She died on September 18, 2012, at the age of 60, after a long and hard-fought struggle with cancer. Here is a look at her life, career, and cause of death.
Early Life and Career
Sheila Marie Ryan was born on September 17, 1952, in Franklin Park, Illinois. She was the daughter of John and Margaret Ryan, who were both Irish immigrants. She had two brothers and a sister. She attended East Leyden High School, where she was a cheerleader and a homecoming queen. She also studied at Triton College and Loyola University.
She began her career as a model and appeared on the cover of Playboy magazine in October 1973. She also posed for other magazines, such as Cosmopolitan, Glamour, and Harper’s Bazaar. She moved to Los Angeles in 1974 to pursue an acting career. She landed roles in films such as The Pom Pom Girls, The Missouri Breaks, and Sextette. She also guest-starred in TV shows such as Barnaby Jones, CHiPs, and Vega$.
Relationship with Elvis Presley
Sheila Ryan met Elvis Presley in Las Vegas in 1974, shortly after he broke up with Linda Thompson. They dated for about a year and were often seen together at Graceland and other places. Elvis dedicated his song “And I Love You So” to Sheila during his concerts and recorded a version of it with her name in it. He also gave her several gifts, such as jewelry, cars, and a horse.
However, their relationship was not very stable and they had frequent arguments. Sheila also felt insecure about Elvis’s drug use and his attraction to other women. They eventually broke up in 1975, but remained friends until his death in 1977.
Marriage to James Caan and Later Years
Sheila Ryan married James Caan, the star of The Godfather, on January 12, 1976. They had a son named Scott Caan, who was born on August 23, 1976. Scott followed his parents’ footsteps and became an actor, known for his roles in Ocean’s Eleven, Hawaii Five-0, and Entourage.
However, Sheila and James’s marriage was also troubled by James’s drug addiction and infidelity. They divorced in 1977, after only a year of marriage. Sheila later married Neil Lisk in 1982, but they also divorced in 1984.
Sheila continued to act sporadically in the 1980s and 1990s, appearing in films such as Alien Nation: Dark Horizon and The King of Queens. She also devoted herself to raising her son Scott and supporting his career.
Cause of Death
Sheila Ryan was diagnosed with cancer in the late 2000s. She underwent chemotherapy and radiation treatments, but the disease progressed and spread to her lungs and brain. She died on September 18, 2012, at her home in Canoga Park, California. She was surrounded by her family and friends.
She was buried at Oakwood Memorial Park in Chatsworth, California. Her funeral service was held on September 22, 2012. Many celebrities attended her funeral, including James Caan, Scott Caan, Larry Geller, Kathy Westmoreland, and Priscilla Presley.
Sheila Ryan was remembered as a beautiful, sweet, and loving person who touched many lives with her kindness and generosity. She left behind a legacy of films, photos, and memories that will always be cherished by her fans and loved ones.
According to Dead or Kicking, Sheila’s cause of death was cancer.
