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Entertainment • Actress

Heather O'Rourke

Heather O'Rourke was an American child actress best known for playing Carol Anne Freeling in the *Poltergeist* film series.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Heather O'Rourke was an American child actress best known for playing Carol Anne Freeling in the *Poltergeist* film series. She also appeared in television roles, including on *Happy Days*. O'Rourke died in 1988 at age 12 from complications of an intestinal obstruction later identified as congenital stenosis of the intestine complicated by septic shock.

Early life

Heather Michele O'Rourke was born in San Diego, California, on December 27, 1975. Available biographical sources identify her parents as Michael O'Rourke and Kathleen O'Rourke.

Acting career

O'Rourke became widely known for her role as Carol Anne Freeling in *Poltergeist* and later appeared in the film series' sequels. She also had television work, including an appearance on *Happy Days*.

Death

O'Rourke died on February 1, 1988, in San Diego after two cardiac arrests. Her death was attributed to congenital stenosis of the intestine complicated by septic shock.

Legacy

Because of her early death and prominent role in the *Poltergeist* films, O'Rourke remains a frequently discussed figure in entertainment history. Her work is still closely associated with the horror genre.

Key facts

  • American child actress active in film and television.
  • Broke through as Carol Anne Freeling in *Poltergeist* (1982).
  • Appeared in the *Poltergeist* sequels, including *Poltergeist III*.
  • Died on February 1, 1988, in San Diego.
  • Her death was ruled due to congenital stenosis of the intestine complicated by septic shock.
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Canadian context

Heather O'Rourke is known in Canada through the *Poltergeist* films, which were widely distributed and remain part of North American popular culture.

Frequently asked questions

How did Heather O'Rourke die?
She died in 1988 after suffering two cardiac arrests during treatment for a severe intestinal obstruction.
How old was Heather O'Rourke when she died?
She was 12 years old.
What was Heather O'Rourke's cause of death?
Her death was ruled to be congenital stenosis of the intestine complicated by septic shock.
What movies was Heather O'Rourke in?
She was best known for the three *Poltergeist* films, especially *Poltergeist* (1982) and *Poltergeist III* (1988).
Who were Heather O'Rourke's parents?
Her parents were Michael O'Rourke and Kathleen O'Rourke.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heather_O'Rourke
    Supports: Birth, death date, age, acting credits, and cause of death.
  2. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001576/bio/
    Supports: Parents' names, birth/death details, and biographical summary.
  3. Los Angeles Times — https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1988-02-03-mn-27226-story.html
    Supports: Death at age 12, hospital context, and intestinal stenosis/septic shock explanation.