One of the UK’s best loved comedy performers, Victoria Wood, has died aged 62 following a short battle with cancer.
The multi-talented writer, actor, comedian, singer and songwriter was discovered in the 1970s on BBC talent show New Faces, and went on to write and star in numerous comedy hits including Dinnerladies, As Seen On TV and Acorn Antiques.
We are devastated to confirm that our very special Victoria has sadly lost her short battle with cancer. Thank you for your support & love.
— Victoria Wood CBE (@VictoriaWoodUK) April 20, 2016
Wood’s staggeringly successful career saw the warm-hearted performer make a few rare but cherished forays into theatre. In 2005 she made her musical theatre debut with her own production, Acorn Antiques: The Musical, at the Theatre Royal Haymarket under the direction of Trevor Nunn.
In 2009 she returned to the world of theatre to direct a revival of her 1978 hit comedy Talent at the Menier Chocolate Factory.
Shortly after today’s sad news was announced, thousands of friends, fans and colleagues took to social media to leave their tributes to the multi BAFTA winner.
Such sad news. RIP Victoria Wood. You always made us howl with laughter.
— Julian Clary (@JulianClary) April 20, 2016
Victoria Wood was a national treasure loved by millions. My thoughts are with her family.
— David Cameron (@David_Cameron) April 20, 2016
In total shock that we have lost Victoria Wood. I had some truly great times with her. Thoughts are with her family. What awful awful news.
— Jenna Russell (@jennarusselluk) April 20, 2016
Seeing Victoria Wood on TV – working class, bookish, silly, clever, doing stand-up, singing, acting – made me think “Girls can do this.”
— Caitlin Moran (@caitlinmoran) April 20, 2016
Among the numerous accolades and awards Wood was adorned with during her life, the star was appointed OBE in 1997 and later CBE in 2008.