Paula Shaw, the Canadian actress known for her work in Freddy vs. Jason and numerous Hallmark Channel movies, has passed away at the age of 84. Her passing was confirmed by The Max, a personal development workshop where Shaw taught for more than three decades. “With heavy hearts.
We share that Paula passed away peacefully,” read a statement from The Max. “Paula touched countless lives through The MAX, the Mastery, and her transformational work. Her legacy lives on in the communities she created and the lives she changed.” Shaw’s career spanned film, television, and theater.
Born in West Vancouver, British Columbia, she developed a passion for the performing arts early in life, leading to a lifelong career in entertainment. She became widely recognized for her role as Mrs. Voorhees in the 2003 horror crossover Freddy vs. Jason, connecting her to the iconic Friday the 13th franchise and cementing her place in horror film history.
Beyond horror, Shaw built a steady presence in television movies, especially through Hallmark Channel productions. Known for portraying warm, maternal, and heartfelt characters, she became a familiar face to audiences seeking comfort and family-centered storytelling. Her television credits included guest roles on series such as The X-Files, The Outer Limits, and Supernatural. She also appeared in films like Life (1999) and A Guy Thing (2003), showcasing her versatility across both dramatic and lighthearted roles.