The Story Behind the 70s Sitcom Hit Laverne & Shirley

In 2018, Penny Marshall died at the age of 75 after decades in the entertainment industry. After starring as Laverne DeFazio, she had successfully reinvented her career as a film director, becoming one of Hollywood’s most successful female filmmakers.

Her directing work included major films such as Big, Awakenings, and A League of Their Own. These achievements expanded her legacy far beyond her sitcom role. When she died, many tributes highlighted how she had broken new ground both as a television star and as a director.