Does Ellen Barkin have cancer? Why did Erin Barkin leave Animal Kingdom?

TNT’s Animal Kingdom premiered in 2016 and follows 17-year-old J (Finn Cole) as he adjusts to his new home life with his estranged criminal family, led by his grandmother, Smurf (Ellen Barkin).

Why did Erin Barkin leave Animal Kingdom?

However, Smurf is killed off in the penultimate episode of Season 4 after J shoots her in the head due to a cancer diagnosis.

Now in Season 5, Animal Kingdom’s remaining players must deal with Smurf’s massive hole.

It’s terrible for them, but it’s even worse for fans who mourn Ellen Barkin’s calm, calculated matriarch.

However, the reasons for the adored character’s cancellation are murky, with showrunners and Barkin alleging different reasons.

Barkin is a talented actor with a filmography that dates back to the late 1970s.

She’s been nominated for a Golden Globe, won a Primetime Emmy and a Tony Award since her breakout role in 1982’s Diner, and is known for her hot love scenes.

Does Ellen Barkin have cancer?

Ellen Barkin does not have cancer.

However, Smurf is killed off in the penultimate episode of Season 4 after J shoots her due to a cancer diagnosis.