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Maria O’Brien, a familiar face from dozens of TV episodes and several feature films, has died at 75. Her passing was reported on Feb. 24, and no cause of death has been released. Colleagues remember her for warm character work on screen and a long, quiet influence as an acting coach behind the scenes.
Roots in Hollywood and early steps into the industry
She grew up with show business in the blood. Her father, Edmond O’Brien, earned an Academy Award in 1954 for Best Supporting Actor. Her mother, Olga San Juan, was a musical comedy actress in films of the 1940s. That upbringing shaped Maria’s path.
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Before she became known onscreen, she worked as an acting coach. Coaching opened doors to daytime dramas and gave her a steady foothold in the industry.
Television roles that defined a dependable career
O’Brien built a lengthy résumé of TV appearances across decades. She often guest-starred and sometimes returned to recurring parts. In 1988 she played Juanita Martinez on Matlock, a role many viewers recall.
Notable television credits
- Sam Benedict (first on-screen credit, 1963)
- Matlock
- The Love Boat
- Magnum, P.I.
- Quincy, M.E.
- CHiPs
- Murder, She Wrote
- L.A. Law
- Good Morning, Miss Bliss
- Nash Bridges
- Jack & Jill; Spyder Games; For the People
Her TV work ranged from prime-time dramas to soap operas and anthology shows. She appeared in episodic roles that required solid, adaptable acting.
Selected films and on-screen highlights
On the big screen, O’Brien took supporting roles that complemented lead actors and advanced the story. She appeared opposite Goldie Hawn in Protocol (1984), playing the character Nancy.
Film appearances
- Protocol (1984) — Nancy
- The Incredible Shrinking Woman (1981)
- Table for Five (1983)
- Smile (1975)
- Promised a Miracle (1988)
- False Arrest (1991)
- In Sickness and in Health (1992)
- Good Luck (1996)
Her film roles were varied, from broad comedies to intimate dramas. Each credit added to the portrait of a versatile character actress.
Theatre recognition and stage work
Beyond screen acting, she also performed on stage. In 1990 she received a Drama-Logue award for her work in Jean Genet’s The Maids. The production played at the Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles.
Theatre remained a meaningful part of her artistic life and earned her critical recognition.
Long-term work as an acting coach
O’Brien returned repeatedly to coaching throughout her career. Early jobs included work on soap operas such as Passions and Sunset Beach. Later, she joined Days of Our Lives in a coaching role.
She spent 15 years coaching on Days of Our Lives before retiring in 2022. That extended tenure reflected a commitment to shaping performances off camera.
Family ties and surviving relatives
She is part of a theatrical family and leaves behind immediate relatives who also worked in entertainment.
- Brother: Actor Brendan O’Brien
- Children: James Anderson, Danica Anderson, Sean Anderson
- Sister: Bridget O’Brien Adelman
Public notices of her death were first circulated by trade outlets. Further details about circumstances surrounding her passing have not been disclosed publicly.
