EMMERDALE STAR LEAH DIES AT 55
Actress hoped for ‘impossible miracle’
TRIBUTES have poured in for Emmerdale star Leah Bracknell who died aged 55 following a brave three-year battle with cancer.
TRIBUTES flooded in last night for Emmerdale star Leah Bracknell who has died of lung cancer.
The soap star, 55, was hoping for an “impossible miracle” and branded herself a “cancer rebel”.
But her manager last night revealed she had succumbed to the disease after three years of fighting.
Former co-star Lisa Riley, who plays Mandy Dingle, said: “God bless you Leah. A true angel to work with.
“You lost your battle far too young. Heaven gains an angel of the truest form.”
The actress, best known for playing Zoe Tate, was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer in 2016.
Her battle came to light when her husband, Jez Hughes, launched a Go Fund Me page for treatment overseas.
The mum of two often posted uplifting messages on a blog. In a last public message, she begged people to campaign for more NHS staff.
She said: “Staff shortages and inadequate diagnostic training is costing lives. My own experience, despite contact with four GPs, did not pick up on the severity of the situation.”
Her family said in a statement: “It is with the deepest sadness Leah Bracknell’s family confirm Leah passed away in September.
“They would like to thank all the public for their support and generosity which contributed to the extension and quality of her life over the past three years.
“Leah continued to embrace life and faced her illness with positivity.”
John Whiston, an ITV drama chief, added: “Everyone on Emmerdale is very sad. Leah was a hugely popular member of the cast for over 16 years.
“She featured in some of the show’s most high-profile and explosive plots and always delivered a pitch-perfect performance.”
Zoe Tate had one of soapland’s first lesbian kisses with Charity Dingle, played by Emma Atkins.
She also starred in A Touch Of Frost and DCI Banks.
In August, Leah announced her cancer treatment had stopped working and said she hoped for an “impossible miracle”.
A spokesman for her family said last night they had decided not to announce her death sooner in order to maintain their privacy.
Sally Dynevor, who plays Sally Metcalfe in rival soap Coronation Street, said: “So sorry to hear Leah Bracknell passed away. Such a beautiful person and an inspiration to many.”
Sally Ann Matthews, who joined the Emmerdale cast as Leah was leaving, said: “So sorry to hear. The world has lost a little sparkle.”