Her son, the actor Orlando Wells, said York was an incredibly brave woman who did not complain about her illness and a “truly wonderful mother.” He said she went into the hospital on Jan. 6 after experiencing shoulder pain.
York had a long, distinguished career on film, television and on stage, but she is best remembered for her early roles, when she had an immediate impact that started with her 1963 role as Albert Finney’s love interest in the memorable period piece romp “Tom Jones.” With its tongue-in-cheek sensuality and gentle sendup of the British aristocracy, the film is remembered as an early landmark in ’60s cinema, and York’s unmistakable presence added to its appeal. Her long blond hair, stunning blue eyes and quick-witted repartee brought her a string of excellent roles.
York was nominated for an Oscar for the 1969 classic “They Shoot Horses, Don’t They?” and also starred in “A Man for All Seasons” and other classic films from that era.
She acted with major stars like Sean Connery, Elizabeth Taylor, Marlon Brando, George C. Scott and many others, stirring some controversy with her daring portrayal of a lesbian in the 1968 drama “The Killing of Sister George.” In 1972 York won the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival. Her film work tailed off as London’s “Swinging Sixties” era faded into cultural history, but she did play Superman’s mother in several of the films.
