EastEnders legend Wendy Richard died seventeen years ago after a long battle with cancer. The actress passed away at age sixty-five with her husband, John Burns, by her side. Wendy played Pauline Fowler for twenty-one years and left a special promise in her will for co-star Natalie Cassidy. Keep scrolling to learn more.
Wendy Richard’s Cancer Battle And The Promise She Left Behind
Wendy Richard handled her illness with great strength that many still talk about. The actress had already beaten cancer twice. However, it soon returned in 2008 and spread to her kidneys and bones. Soon she learnt that the cancer was terminal.
Wendy married her long-time partner in a ceremony. And was surrounded by people who loved her. Later, she stayed in London for treatment. When she passed away at the Harley Street Clinic, her husband John Burns was by her side. The icon was loved and respected that she got tributes from the industry.
Even her former colleagues spoke about her strength. The actress also made some careful decisions about her future. This is reflected in her will about the people she held close. Wendy wanted her ashes to rest with her late terrier, Shirley, and with John once he is gone.
Remember former BBC soap star Natalie Cassidy? Wendy left a promise for her, as she had become family to her. It was mentioned that if her husband passed away within 28 days of her, her will would go to Natalie. Elsewhere, people loved her as Pauline Fowler on the soap. And she was proud of her craft until the very end.
Pauline Fowler’s Final Storyline On EastEnders
On the soap, Pauline’s marriage to Joe Macer had fallen apart. It happened after she found out sides of him she couldnt accept. Pauline struggled with her relationships with Martin and Sonia. She also tried to control her granddaughter’s life. Also, Pauline had lied about having a brain tumour, which brought more distance in the family.
In 2006, she planned to leave Walford for America. However, she changed her mind as she wanted to repair the situation at home. Later, Sonia and Pauline got into an argument. This ended with Sonia slapping Pauline. Sonia was arrested for the murder during the funeral.
However, it was later revealed that Joe Macer had caused the fatal blow leading to Pauline’s death. She had been hit over the head with a frying pan by him. This led to a brain hemorrhage and she fell down. For more EastEnders spoilers and updates, keep following Soap Opera Daily.