Jill Gascoine has died aged 83.
The British actress, best known for her TV roles in ‘The Gentle Touch’ and ‘The Onedin Line’, has passed away after suffering from Alzheimer’s disease for a number of years.
Jill’s son Adam confirmed her death, writing on Facebook: "She suffered from Alzheimer’s for 10 years, so today was a thankful release.
"The family is all well, and relieved that she’s not suffering any more."
Due to the coronavirus pandemic, there will not be a memorial for Jill – who lived in a care home in Los Angles in the later stages of her life – "for a good while", but the family are planning services in the US and UK.
Adam added: "There will not be a memorial for a good while due to the current climate. The family will reach out once details have been arranged.
"We will likely hold 2 services – one in London for the UK friends and family, and one in Los Angeles for the US side.
"She was a wonderful human and a spirit of truth and absolute, unconditional love. There was no other.
"I am happy she’s moved on. Please raise a glass. Be kind and love deeply (sic)"
Jill, who was married to fellow actor Alfred Molina, was best known for playing Detective Inspector Maggie Forbes in 1980s TV series ‘The Gentle Touch’, and spin-off ‘C.A.T.S. Eyes’.
She also starred in TV series ‘Z Cars’ and ‘Dixon of Dock Green’, and in the 1990s she and Alfred moved to Los Angeles.
In 2009, she was due to join ‘EastEnders’ as Glenda Mitchell – the mother of Roxy and Ronnie Mitchell – but later withdrew from the role and it was re-cast, with Glynis Barber taking on the part.
Speaking about the role, Jill previously said: "Having spent the last 15 years working in America … I felt on arrival I lacked the right experience to film such a big continuing drama.
"I have tremendous respect for ‘EastEnders’ and the cast so I don’t want to let the show or my fellow cast members down."
In the later stages of her career she became a novelist and published three books.
Jill Gascoine dies aged 83
