Grange Hill star and ‘trailblazing’ actress Cleo Sylvestre dies aged 79

Cleo Sylvestre, an actress who starred in numerous TV shows and films, has died aged 79, her agent confirmed.

Sylvestre was known for her roles in hit programmes Doctor Who, Grange Hill, The Bill, Till Death Do Us Part and New Tricks, while on the big screen she starred in films including Paddington and Kidulthood.

After a brief appearance in Coronation Street, she became the first-ever regular black British female character on British TV, in Crossroads, playing Meg Richardson’s adopted daughter Melanie from 1970 to 1972.

Announcing Sylvestre’s death this evening, a statement from Fulcrum Talent said: ‘It is with deep regret that I have to announce the sad news that Cleo Sylvestre MBE died this morning.

‘Much loved and admired by her peers, she will be remembered as a trailblazer and a true friend. She will be sorely missed by so many.

‘We ask that you respect the privacy of her family at this difficult time.’

On X, Sylvestre’s fans and loved ones paid tribute, including her daughter Zoe Palmer, who wrote: ‘Our beloved, inspirational mum @CleoSylvestre crossed over this morning. With thanks to the teams @NHSHomerton and #therlh who cared for her so brilliantly over the past three weeks. Rest in power mum, see you on the dancefloor.

Dame Elizabeth Anionwu said: ‘Devastated to learn of the death of Cleo Sylvestre, my wonderful, kind friend. Amongst many activities, she was a great supporter of the Mary Seacole Statue Appeal. I cherish this 2016 photo of her dressed as Mary Seacole, at the unveiling of the memorial statue. Rest well Cleo.’

@GeoffreyMunn1 shared: ‘The wonderful Cleo Sylvestre MBE died early this morning 1945-2024. Despite a very challenging upbringing she walked out into the limelight as an actress and singer who radiated modest charm and joy wherever she went. She will be greatly missed.’

@dearjohnbyrne also added: ‘A true legend has left us. RiP to the kind, courageous & powerfully talented @CleoSylvestre.’

After studying at  Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts, Sylvestre began her acting career in the theatre, becoming the first Black actress in a leading role at the National Theatre in The National Health in 1969.

Her early TV roles include Ken Roach’s 1965 series Up The Junction, Cathy Come Home and Poor Cow.

Outside of acting, Sylvestre also sang as Cleo with the Rolling Stones backing her on a cover of To Know Him Is To Love Him in 1964 and continued to be a musician with her blues band Honey B Mama And Friends.

In 2023, she was at Buckingham Palace as she was made an MBE for services to drama and charity.

Her most recent screen roles included ITV thriller Platform 7, and Channel 5’s revamp of All Creatures Great And Small.

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