Dame June Whitfield has died

OHMYGOSSIP — Dame June Whitfield has died at the age of 93.
The iconic actress – who starred in the long-running sitcoms ‘Terry and June’ and ‘Absolutely Fabulous’, as well as ‘Last of the Summer Wine’ and the ‘Carry On’ film franchise – “passed away peacefully” on Friday (28.12.18) night, according to her agent, who confirmed the news on Saturday (29.12.18).
As of the time of writing, June’s cause of death is not known to the public, although she revealed in a recent radio interview that she was suffering from ill health, as she joked she could only play the role of someone “in bed going to sleep” if she was to return to acting.
The actress had a lengthy career spanning over eight decades, and was made a Dame in the 2017 birthday honours for her services to drama and entertainment, after having received the OBE in 1985 and the CBE in 1998.
June is survived by her 58-year-old daughter Suzy, whom she had with her husband Terry Aitchinson, who passed away in 2001.
And following the news of her tragic passing, her former co-stars and crew members have paid tribute on social media, including from Joanna Lumley, starred with her in ‘Absolutely Fabulous’.
Posting a picture of the two together, Joanna wrote on Twitter: “Sad news just in.. The brilliant and gorgeous June Whitfield has sadly passed away at the age of 93. Thoughts go out to her family and friends.”
Whilst Julia Sawalha, who played her granddaughter Saffy in the show, said: “Thank you Dame June Whitfield, for teaching me my craft with such grace and dignity.
“I always wanted you to know how in awe of you I was, however, you were always far too humble to accept my adoration. You were a great source of inspiration to me. Bye-bye Gran.”
Shane Allen, controller of BBC Comedy, also released a statement in which he dubbed June as “the North Star of British comedy”.
He said: “June Whitfield was the North Star of British comedy.
“Her spectacular career is unparalleled in its longevity, with seven decades of being a key element in numerous high profile and successful shows.
“She was the go-to female comedy performer of her generation and was always in demand from the cream of British comedy.
“She led the way for female comedy and we owe her enormous respect. Our thoughts go out to family and friends at this sad time.”
In total, Dame June Whitfield appeared in more than 1,300 radio and television shows during her impressive career.

Source: Female First
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