It is with great sadness, that STARBURST reports the death of acclaimed actress Billie Whitelaw. She was 82 years of age.

Rising through radio and theatre (referred to as the “perfect actress” by esteemed playwright Samuel Beckett), she developed into a reputable television actress, appearing in shows now regarded as classics, including DIXON OF DOCK GREEN and THE ADVENTURES OF ROBIN HOOD, one of the earlier television interpretations of the character. She later became known for her turns in films now regarded as both mainstream and cult classics. These included a role in Alfred Hitchcock’s penultimate film FRENZY (1972), more famously the role of the devilish Mrs. Baylock, guardian to the equally devilish Damien in THE OMEN (1976), the voice of Aughra in the Jim Henson classic THE DARK CRYSTAL (1982), the role of Violet Kray in the now cult biopic THE KRAYS (1991) alongside Martin and Gary Kemp, and most recently in HOT FUZZ (2007) where, in what was her final film role, she made even doing a crossword very funny. 

Few performers enjoy success across a variety of different film and television roles without being pigeonholed. Billie Whitelaw brought originality to her roles and was able to provoke several reactions from her very different audiences.

The thoughts of all at STARBURST go out to the friends and family of Billie Whitelaw, a truly wonderful actress.

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