EastEnders actress Louise Plowright dies aged 59 after losing battle with cancer
FORMER EastEnders star, Julie Cooper, has died aged 59, after losing her battle with pancreatic cancer.
EastEnders actress Louise Plowright loses her battle with cancer, aged 59
The actress starred as man-eating hairdresser Julie Cooper in the BBC soap in 1989, before going on to land a string of huge West End roles.
A post on a group dedicated to raising funds for the starlet’s treatment, broke the news in a devastating statement today.
It read: “Dear wonderful supporters of Louise. 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.
Louise Plowright as Julie Cooper in EastEnders
The actress graced the stage in a number of West End musicals
The star's fans flooded Twitter with tributes
"Can I thank all of you who joined us in this battle and who helped Louise to have hope."
Louise retired from her role as Madame Morrible in Wicked after being diagnosed with her disease back in 2013.
Two years later, she had major surgery to remove the cancer but it soon returned, prompting her family to launch a fundraising effort to raise £140,000.
Louise also appeared in Footballers Wives and Grange hill
Louise made her television debut in Albert Square before notable appearances in Footballers Wives: Overtime and Grange Hill.
Wicked’s Twitter account paid tribute to the late starlet, writing: “With great sadness we report that the wonderful Louise Plowright has passed away after a long and courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.”
Thousands of fans followed to air their heartbreak on social media, including ex Coronation Street actress Hayley Tamaddon, who posted: “Thoughts go to Louise Plowright's family at this very sad time. Had the pleasure of working with her, & giggling with her. RIP lovely Lou.xx.”