Celebrity deaths in 2023: Haydn Gwynne, British actress from 'The Crown'

The stage and screen lost a dazzling presence in the fall of 2023. British actress Haydn Gwynne, a talent that illuminated the entertainment industry for almost 40 years, tragically passed away at 66.

BBC carried the heartbreaking confirmation. "It is with great sadness we are sharing with you that, following her recent diagnosis with cancer, the star of stage and screen Haydn Gwynne died in hospital in the small hours of Friday 20 October," her agent told the BBC.

The actress died "surrounded by her beloved sons, close family and friends," continued the statement. The message also conveyed heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated teams at the London-based Royal Marsden and Brompton hospitals for their exceptional care and support during her fierce but short battle with cancer.

While she may not have been the most famous British actress, her peers were consistently in awe of her talent. According to the Guardian, behind the scenes, she was widely known as "Britain’s Bette Davis," because of her take on independent, sardonic, cynical and seductive characters.

"Haydn was a delight as a person and a consummate dedicated actress," Dame Helen Mirren, who worked with the actress wrote on Instagram."She was both funny and serious at the same time, a brilliant balancing act that her whole career exemplified. We will miss her very much."

Another British acting legend remembered her equally fondly. "From 'Billy Elliott' onstage to 'The Windsors' and so much more onscreen, Haydn Gwynne was a total original. Every performance was matchless," wrote Ian McKellen. "I shall always treasure dancing with her in "Beauty and the Beast," as she led me round the floor, heaving with laughter. A dear loss to all her colleagues, admirers and her bereft family."

Gwynne’s illustrious career began in the mid-80s, marked by roles in beloved shows like ‘Lovejoy’ and ‘A Very Peculiar Practice.’ Born in 1957 in Hurstpierpoint, England, she embarked on a journey filled with diverse and memorable roles.

Gwynne's remarkable contributions made her a constant and beloved presence in the British television landscape, creating a tapestry of roles that captivated audiences for decades.

One of her notable performances includes portraying journalist Alex Pates in the comedy ‘Drop the Dead Donkey,’ which earned her a prestigious BAFTA nomination in 1992.

Gwynne's versatility shined through in roles of regal elegance such as Queen Camilla in the renowned comedy ‘The Windsors,’ embodying characters that resonated with audiences and enriched the world of entertainment.

Gwynne's nuanced performances were also seen around the world, most recently in the hit Netflix series ‘The Crown.’ In its fifth season in 2022, she brought to life Susan Hussey, the lady-in-waiting to Queen Elizabeth II, who resigned from the royal household following a racism scandal.

In a testament to her remarkable presence in theatre, Gwynne’s portrayal of Mrs. Wilkinson, the dance teacher in ‘Billy Elliot the Musical,’ stands out. This powerful performance not only captivated audiences but also earned her nominations for prestigious Olivier and Tony awards.

The theatre also saw Gwynne embracing powerful roles such as Margaret Thatcher in ‘The Audience.’ Her exceptional portrayals were recognized with Olivier nominations, further celebrated in performances in ‘City of Angels,’ ‘Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown,’ and ‘The Threepenny Opera.’

Gwynne’s commitment to her craft remained steadfast, working passionately up until her final days. Her diagnosis became public in September 2023, leading her to step away from her lead role in ‘Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends’ at the Gielgud Theatre.

Looking ahead, Gwynne was set to continue captivating audiences with a return to ‘The Windsors’ for its fourth season, scheduled for late 2023 or early 2024, as reported by ‘Variety.’ The production had already faced challenges, pausing due to the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.