Coronation Street star Angela Pleasance dies aged 84 as tributes pour in for beloved actress and daughter of famed Bond villain

by

Angela Pleasance has died at the age of 84. 

The actress, known for playing Monica Sutton on Coronation Street, was the daughter of Donald Pleasance, who appeared in ‘You Only Live Twice,’ and his first wife, Miriam Raymond.

Angela began her film career in 1973 with the movie Hitler: The Last Ten Days. She later became known for her roles in several horror films, such as From Beyond the Grave and Symptoms.

She was also known for her roles in historical dramas, including Catherine Howard in The Six Wives of Henry VIII, Lady Bertram in Mansfield Park, and Mrs. Grantly in The Barchester Chronicles.

Angela’s agency paid tribute to the late star in a statement that noted her career highlights.

We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of our valued client, Angela Pleasance. It was a privilege to represent Angela, a talented professional with a distinguished career that spanned over fifty years.

She began her acting career on stage in 1964, playing Titania in a production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre, following her training at RADA.

She continued her career with performances at the National Theatre and in London’s West End, appearing in plays such as Ghetto, The Hothouse, and The Cherry Orchard.

I’ve always been captivated by Angela’s work, and she really cemented her place in my heart with those classic British horror films – ‘From Beyond the Grave’ and ‘The Godsend’ are absolute standouts! It was amazing to see her talent extend even to a Martin Scorsese film like ‘Gangs of New York,’ proving just how versatile she was.

‘In these roles, she brought remarkable depth and unease to complex, often enigmatic characters.

In addition to her movies, Angela consistently appeared on British television, taking on roles in everything from historical dramas to contemporary shows like Doctor Who and Happy Valley.

She became famous for playing Catherine Howard in the BBC’s series about Henry VIII’s wives.

She wasn’t easily categorized by musical genre, but her impact on British music is unforgettable and highly respected. We extend our deepest sympathies to her family during this difficult time.

Fans immediately shared heartfelt tributes, writing messages like, ‘A truly gifted performer, and a devastating loss. Sending sympathy to her loved ones. She was a wonderful actress ❤️’.

So incredibly sad to hear of her passing. She was a truly talented and wonderful actress. Rest in peace. ❤️❤️❤️

Such a talented and beloved character actress. Sending condolences to her family. We’re deeply saddened by her passing. ❤️

I was so impressed with her performance in the BBC’s adaptation of The Barchester Chronicles. I especially remember how natural and convincing she was as an actress. I truly hope her family comes across these messages and finds some solace in them.

Angela’s father, Donald, first introduced her to acting. He was well-known for playing the Bond villain Ernst Stavro Blofeld.

Donald also starred as psychiatrist Dr. Samuel Loomis in Halloween and four of its sequels. 

In 1994, Queen Elizabeth II appointed him an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in recognition of his contributions to the world of theatre.

Donald died in 1995 at the age of 75 after marrying four times and welcoming five daughters. 

He had two daughters, Angela and Jean, with his first wife, Miriam, whom he was married to from 1941 until 1958. Later, with his second wife, Josephine Martin Crombie, whom he married in 1959 and divorced in 1970, he had two more daughters, Lucy and Polly.

Donald shared Miranda with third wife Meira Shore, married between 1970 and 1988).

He married Linda Kentwood in 1988 and the pair were together until his death. 

Read More

2026-04-10 18:49