Friends and colleagues have paid their own personal tributes to actress and writer Josephine Melville following her sudden death on Thursday.
The Leeds Playhouse actress and former EastEnders star tragically died backstage at Nottingham Playhouse following her performance in Night Night, which is being co-produced by Leeds Playhouse. The actress, 61, who played Tessa Parker in EastEnders during the 1980s, was starring as Maggie in the production.
Josephine received immediate treatment from first aiders at the playhouse as well as a medically qualified member of the audience. Paramedics also quickly arrived at the scene but, sadly, she could not be saved. Tributes and condolences have been expressed across the country.
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Loose Women panellist Denise Welch tweeted: "So so sad. A wonderful actress." Author Syd Moore tweeted: "I am so devastated to hear about the awful news of my friend, Jo Melville. I am heartbroken. Jo Is a force of nature, amazing, full of zest. Cannot believe it. My thoughts are with her sons."
Actor and director Anthony Ekundayo Lennon also took to social media to pay tribute, writing: "Thinking of Jo’s family, the Nine Night cast/creatives and anyone who knew her. Josephine Melville, a brilliant and inspirational soul! Jo’s friendship was an amazing reminder of what optimistic, enthusiastic and fun connection feels like. Beautiful memories flood my mind."
Southend MP Anna Firth said: "I was very sorry to hear of the sudden death of Josephine Melville. It was a pleasure to meet her on a number of occasions here in Southend - clearly a great talent. All my thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends."
A spokesperson for grassroots network Blactress UK said: "Our dear friend, sister and fellow Blacktress has taken her ascendance. Josephine Melville has been a supporter of Blacktress since our conception. Over the past few years, we have been blessed by her wisdom, positivity, joy and passion for her community."
All future performances of Nine Night have now been cancelled following the tragedy. Organisers have confirmed they will be in touch with everyone who had booked a ticket.
Josephine also appeared in the 1987 film Empire State and starred in The Bill, Pie in the Sky and Prime Suspect. In the 2000s, Josephine starred in Little Miss Jocelyn, L8r and Hold the Sunset. This year she completed filming for the new sci-fi thriller Slammer playing Detective Russell.
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