Barbara Windsor’s widower Scott Mitchell reveals soap star asked him if he was her father in the lead up to her ‘cruel’ death with Alzheimer’s disease

Barbara Windsor's widower Scott Mitchell reveals soap star asked him if he was her father in the lead up to her 'cruel' death with Alzheimer's disease

As a dedicated follower of Barbara Windsor’s career and a witness to her heartbreaking battle with Alzheimer’s disease, I cannot help but be deeply moved by Scott Mitchell’s recent revelations about his late wife’s final moments. It is a cruel reality that Alzheimer’s robs individuals of their memories and identity, leaving their loved ones feeling helpless and devastated.


As a devoted fan of the beloved Barbara Windsor, I can only imagine the deep connection and intimacy she shared with her husband, Scott Mitchell. In his recent interview, he revealed the poignant last words she spoke to him before her passing. With a heavy heart, I retell this story in first person:

In December 2020, at the age of 83, Peggy Mitchell from EastEnders and beloved Carry On star Dame Barbara passed away after a long struggle of seven years against Alzheimer’s disease.

During an interview on Good Morning Britain on Thursday, Scott discussed candidly the painful struggle he went through with the illness that took iconic figure’s life. He reminisced about her final moments.

As her health declined and she became confused about the difference between her current self and her past, Barbara asked the actor, “Are you my father?” he disclosed.

When host Richard Madeley inquired if Barbara recognized him towards the end, Scott replied: “Yes, her recognition of me fluctuated.”

Barbara Windsor's widower Scott Mitchell reveals soap star asked him if he was her father in the lead up to her 'cruel' death with Alzheimer's disease

Barbara Windsor's widower Scott Mitchell reveals soap star asked him if he was her father in the lead up to her 'cruel' death with Alzheimer's disease

Occasionally, she’d mistake me for someone else, and once jokingly she asked, “Are you my dad?” It’s painful to observe such confusion.

In 2014, Barbara received a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease which she chose to keep concealed from the public for the next four years.

In the year 2000, they exchanged marriage vows, but their union raised eyebrows because of the significant age difference between them, with a gap of 27 years.

Scott, currently dating Tanya Franks, Barbara’s ex-colleague, recounted the instance when Barbara exhibited an early symptom, prior to her diagnosis and departure from EastEnders.

I once noticed Barbara exhibiting some strange behavior while working on the set of EastEnders. On occasion, she would suddenly freeze up, which was unlike her usual demeanor during filming.

Upon arriving home, she expressed, “I’m utterly baffled. I suddenly went blank, unable to recall my lines or even grasp why I was there and what my purpose was.”

‘And that was way before diagnosis. I’d say that was a good three years before diagnosis.

In 2014, she received a diagnosis. It’s believed that the condition may have started around 2009, as she left the show in 2010.

Barbara Windsor's widower Scott Mitchell reveals soap star asked him if he was her father in the lead up to her 'cruel' death with Alzheimer's disease
Barbara Windsor's widower Scott Mitchell reveals soap star asked him if he was her father in the lead up to her 'cruel' death with Alzheimer's disease
Barbara Windsor's widower Scott Mitchell reveals soap star asked him if he was her father in the lead up to her 'cruel' death with Alzheimer's disease
Barbara Windsor's widower Scott Mitchell reveals soap star asked him if he was her father in the lead up to her 'cruel' death with Alzheimer's disease
Barbara Windsor's widower Scott Mitchell reveals soap star asked him if he was her father in the lead up to her 'cruel' death with Alzheimer's disease
Barbara Windsor's widower Scott Mitchell reveals soap star asked him if he was her father in the lead up to her 'cruel' death with Alzheimer's disease
Barbara Windsor's widower Scott Mitchell reveals soap star asked him if he was her father in the lead up to her 'cruel' death with Alzheimer's disease

Regrettably, it’s a known fact that this condition is progressive and impacts a vast number of people. The numbers are alarming – roughly half of us will either develop it ourselves or provide care for someone dear to us.

After Barbara’s quiet departure due to Alzheimer’s or dementia, Scott shared: “She peacefully passed away, and I had the privilege of being with her during her final week.”

Barbara’s loved ones, including myself, will cherish her with deep affection, fond memories, and smiles as we recall the numerous years of love, laughter, companionship, and vitality she added to our lives. Additionally, countless others were touched by her remarkable entertainment career.

In her last few weeks, Barbara continued to live true to form. She was filled with wit, excitement, and an unyielding determination right up until the end.

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2024-07-25 14:33

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