Western Daily Press (Saturday)
Actress Helen McCrory dies of cancer, aged 52
HELEN McCrory has died from cancer at the age of 52, her “heartbroken” husband Damian Lewis has said.
The “beautiful and mighty” actress, who was known for starring in hit crime drama Peaky Blinders and James Bond film Skyfall, died peacefully at home, he said.
In a tweet yesterday afternoon, actor Mr Lewis wrote: “I’m heartbroken to announce that after an heroic battle with cancer, the beautiful and mighty woman that is Helen McCrory has died peacefully at home, surrounded by a wave of love from friends and family.
“She died as she lived. Fearlessly. God we love her and know how lucky we are to have had her in our lives. She blazed so brightly. Go now Little One, into the air, and thank you.”
McCrory was born in Paddington, London, to a Welsh mother and Scottish-born father and was the eldest of three children.
She attended school in Hertfordshire, then spent a year living in Italy, before returning to London to study
acting at the Drama Centre. McCrory and Lewis married in 2007 and share a daughter, Manon, born in 2006, and son Gulliver, born in 2007.
Rev Richard Coles was among those paying tribute. He wrote on Twitter: “Very sorry to hear of the death of Helen McCrory, such a brilliant actor; heartfelt condolences to Damian Lewis, their children, and all who loved her.”
Actor Jim Howick, who worked with Helen McCrory and her husband on the 2015 comedy film Bill, tweeted: “This is so shocking and sad. Helen along with Damian were both terrific fun on Bill. She was so generous with her time and her performance.
“I urge everyone to listen to her Desert Island Discs. What a talent we have lost.”
The actor Kevin McKidd, who starred opposite McCrory in the 2000 TV miniseries Anna Karenina, tweeted: “I am utterly heartbroken to hear this.
“Damian I’m sending you and the family all my love and warmth at this time.
“Helen, we love you. Your talent, humanity and passion for life will be remembered by me and everyone your life touched with deep gratitude. Rest In Peace dear one.”
The Wizarding World Twitter account, home to the Harry Potter franchise, tweeted: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our beloved Helen McCrory, who played Narcissa Malfoy with such depth and brilliance in the Harry Potter film series.
“She was a wonderful actor and a very dear friend; Harry Potter fans will miss her very much.”