UNITED STATES — Veteran American actress Irma P. Hall, best remembered for her memorable portrayal of Big Mama in the beloved 1997 film Soul Food, has reportedly died at the age of 91.
According to a statement attributed to her family, Hall passed away on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, leaving behind a legacy that extended beyond Hollywood into literature, poetry and education.
Her family remembered her as a gifted actress, author, poet and educator whose work touched countless lives throughout her career.
The family has requested privacy as relatives and loved ones mourn her passing.
Remembered as Big Mama
Hall became a familiar face to generations of movie lovers through her portrayal of Josephine “Big Mama” Joseph in Soul Food, a family drama that explored the importance of love, tradition and unity within an African-American family.
Her performance as the family’s beloved matriarch helped make the film a cultural favourite, with Big Mama becoming a symbol of strength, wisdom and the importance of keeping families together.
The film, which also starred Vanessa Williams, Vivica A. Fox and Nia Long, remains one of the most recognisable productions of its era.
A Remarkable Career Beyond Hollywood
Hall enjoyed a distinguished acting career, appearing in several major film and television productions.
Her credits included The Ladykillers, A Family Thing and Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
She received widespread critical recognition for her performance in the 2004 film The Ladykillers, earning the Jury Prize for Best Actress at the Cannes Film Festival.
Beyond acting, Hall was also recognised for her contributions to education and creative writing.
Her work as a poet, author and educator reflected her passion for storytelling and sharing knowledge with others.
A Lasting Legacy
Hall’s portrayal of strong, compassionate and memorable characters helped establish her as a respected figure in American entertainment.
For many viewers, however, she will forever be remembered as Big Mama, the loving grandmother whose presence anchored the family at the centre of Soul Food.
Her reported passing marks the loss of a performer whose contributions to film, literature and education left a lasting impression on generations of admirers.
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