Louise Plowright, a former actress on Eastenders, has died from pancreatic cancer aged 59.
Plowright was most widely known for her role as the hairdresser Julie Cooper in Eastenders and as Donna in the West End show Mamma Mia.
She played Madame Morrible in the musical Wicked but was forced to pull out after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2013.
The death was announced on a Facebook page raising money for cancer treatment and confirmed by Wicked.
“Dear wonderful supporters of Louise," it reads. "I am so sorry to have to let you know what an hour ago we lost Louise to that horrid disease. All of her family were with her.
“The world has lost a truly special person, prodigiously talented, and a friend to all.
“Can I thank all of you who joined us in this battle and who helped Louise to have hope.”
Her talent agency paid tribute to Plowright on Twitter, writing: “Our darling Louise Plowright. Now out of pain and in a better calmer place. Sadly missed and hugely loved forever.”
