Barbara Barrie Cause of Death: Why the 'Breaking Away' star opted for 'Medical Aid' in dying at 95

Oscar-nominated actress Barbara Barrie, best known for her roles in 'Breaking Away' and 'Barney Miller', died on Wednesday at the age of 95. Her death gained too much attention not only because of her distinguished career but also because of the way she died. Barrie, who was suffering from terminal cancer, opted to take her own life via medical assistance. Her death thus put spotlight on the long-term ailments of the actress as well as her advocacy for people with grave conditions.

WHY DID BARBARA BARRIE CHOOSE MEDICALLY ASSISTED DEATH?

Barrie died at her New York home after being diagnosed with terminal cancer. Her daughter, Jane Harnick, confirmed the same to The New York Times that her mother's death was 'chosen and medically assisted'.

Her agent Gary Gersh told USA TODAY that the death of Barrie had been medically assisted in accordance with the Medical Aid in Dying Act of the state of New York, which she favored.

The law, which was signed into law in February but came into effect on August 5, 2026, permits eligible individuals suffering from a terminal illness and with a prognosis of no more than six months to ask for medication that will help end their life.

Although the family has not stated the nature of the terminal cancer afflicting Barrie, the actress has talked openly about her health problems before.

She was diagnosed with rectal cancer in 1994 and had a colostomy surgery done. Her experiences were captured in two books, namely, Second Act and Don't Die of Embarrassment, in an effort to motivate others suffering from such ailments.

Speaking about her cancer experience in 1997, Barrie told the Sun Sentinel, as quoted by Men's Journal, "It's not the end of the world. What I'm trying to tell people is that you can have this thing and survive it."

She was also diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in 2014; it is an incurable lung disorder that causes scarring, making it difficult for her to breathe.

REMEMBERING BARBARA BARRIE: FROM 'BREAKING AWAY' TO 'BARNEY MILLER'

Chicago-born Barrie has made an impressive career that includes films, television, and Broadway productions. She won an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress in 1979 for her role as Evelyn Stohler in the film Breaking Away.

She was also seen on television regularly with her role in Barney Miller, where she played Elizabeth Miller, the wife of Hal Linden’s character. Some of her other popular shows include Private Benjamin, Suddenly Susan, and Law & Order.

Other than Hollywood, she has been nominated for a Tony award for her role in the Broadway production of Stephen Sondheim’s musical 'Company'. She leaves behind her daughter Jane, son Aaron and three granddaughters.