Hallmark Star and Freddy vs. Jason Actress Paula Shaw Dead at 84
Former actor Paula Shaw, known for her roles in Freddy vs. Jason and a number of Hallmark holiday films, has died. She was 84 years old.
Life and Career
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Born: July 17, 1941, New York City.
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Acting career: Shaw had a long, varied career in film and television. She was a life member of the Actors Studio. Her roles ranged from appearances on classic TV shows to horror and holiday movies.
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One of her most recognizable performances was as Pamela Voorhees in Freddy vs. Jason (2003). She took on the role originally made famous by Betsy Palmer.
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Shaw also became a familiar face on Hallmark Channel productions, especially during holiday seasons. Her recent credits include Cedar Cove, Hanukkah on Rye, A Mrs. Miracle Christmas, It Was Always You, and Five Star Christmas.
Her Passing
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When and Where: She died in her sleep on September 10, 2025, in Vancouver, British Columbia, after a “long illness.”
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Her passing was confirmed by The Max, a personal development workshop she led for over 30 years; she taught transformation and self-expression courses.
Legacy and Tributes
Paula Shaw is remembered not only for her cinematic and television roles, but also for her work as a teacher and mentor in workshops where she encouraged self-expression. Her contributions spanned decades.
Colleagues and fans have expressed admiration for both her artistic achievements and her personal warmth. Among those paying tribute was Cedar Cove screenwriter Julie Sherman Wolfe, who recalled fond conversations with Shaw and described her as a beloved figure.
Paula Shaw’s departure marks the end of a rich and multifaceted life in the arts—one that bridged horror, wholesome holiday storytelling, stage, screen, and personal growth. She leaves behind a legacy many will continue to appreciate.
