Actress Irma P Hall, known for ‘Soul Food,’ ‘A Family Thing’ and ‘The Ladykillers,’ dies at 91
DALLAS, TEXAS: Veteran actress Irma P. Hall, best known for her role in films like ‘Soul Food,’ ‘A Family Thing,’ ‘Collateral,’ and ‘The Ladykillers’ opposite Tom Hanks, has passed away at the age of 91.
Her family announced the news of her death on Wednesday, November 11. The statement revealed that Hall died on Tuesday, November 10, in Dallas, Texas.
Irma P. Hall remembered as ‘beloved actress, author, poet, and educator’
In an official statement shared on Facebook, Hall’s family wrote, “It is with profound sadness that the family of [Celebrity, Irma P Hall] announces their passing on 11-10-2026.”
“Irma P Hall was a beloved actress, author, poet, educator, and public speaker whose contributions touched countless lives throughout her remarkable career. Her legacy of talent, dedication, and compassion will continue to inspire generations to come,” the statement continued.
“During this difficult time, the family respectfully requests privacy as they grieve and mourn the loss of their loved one. They ask members of the media and the public to honor their wishes by allowing them the space and time needed to come together in remembrance and healing,” it further mentioned.
“The family deeply appreciates the outpouring of love, support, and condolences from fans, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers worldwide. The family will share additional information about memorial services, including the date, time, and location, in a subsequent press release at the appropriate time,” the statement concluded.
Irma P. Hall’s acting career spanned nearly five decades
Born in 1935 in Beaumont, Texas, Hall’s first film role did not arrive until the age of 37, when she was discovered by director Raymond St. Jacques, who cast her in the 1973 film ‘Book of Numbers.’
Hall went to work in several films and TV shows over the years. She earned her breakthrough playing the role of Aunt T. in the 1996 film, ‘A Family Thing.’ The following year, Hall took on the role of Mama Joseph in ‘Soul Food,’ a character she reprised in the TV spinoff, ‘Soul Food: The Series.’
Mama Joseph became one of Hall’s most recognized roles and also helped earn her first NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture. She gained further acclaim after appearing in the 2004 remake of ‘The Ladykillers,’ starring alongside Tom Hanks, Marlon Wayans, and J.K. Simmons.
Hall won a special Jury Prize at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival for her performance in the film. She also made guest appearances in popular TV shows such as ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit,’ ‘Chicago Fire’ and ‘The Game.’
The veteran Hollywood star’s final onscreen appearance was in 2017 on the Sundance TV series ‘Hap and Leonard,’ in which she played the role of Meemaw. Hall lived in Dallas with her family, where she breathed her last.
