Dominique Dunne

Dominique Dunne was an American actress best known for playing Dana Freeling in the 1982 film Poltergeist.

Dominique Dunne was an American actress best known for playing Dana Freeling in the 1982 film Poltergeist. Her career was cut short when she was fatally attacked by her ex-boyfriend in 1982, at age 22.

Early life and family

Dominique Ellen Dunne was born in Santa Monica, California, in 1959. She was the daughter of Dominick Dunne and Ellen Griffin Dunne.

Acting career

Dunne began working in film and television in the late 1970s. Her best-known performance was as Dana Freeling in the 1982 film Poltergeist.

Death

In October 1982, Dunne was attacked by her former boyfriend, John Thomas Sweeney, outside her West Hollywood home. She died several days later after falling into a coma.

Legacy

Dunne is often remembered for her promising career and her death at a young age. Her case has been discussed in broader conversations about domestic violence and the criminal justice response to abuse.