Beloved actress Anna Karen, known for her roles in EastEnders, On The Buses and the Carry On movies, has died at the age of 85 in a house fire.
The star was the best friend of Dame Barbara Windsor, who died in 2020, and appeared alongside her in multiple comedy movies, as well as in EastEnders as Aunt Sal, Peggy Mitchell's older sister.
Fire services were called to a blaze at a home in Ilford at around 10.20pm last night, and despite best efforts to save her, Karen died at the scene.
"It is very sad news," said agent Shane Collins, who also represented Windsor. "But I'm happy that Anna will now be with her best mate Barbara and her beloved husband Terry Duggan.
"Anna was a great lady and a really nice person. She was a fantastic client to look after. I can't tell you how much I liked her.
"She went through a hard time after she broke her hip a few years ago but came back to work again and appeared in EastEnders with a stick.
"Over the last couple of years she has been at home with friends popping by and her neighbours looking out for her."
An EastEnders spokesperson added: "We are deeply saddened to hear that Anna Karen has passed away.
"Anna created a sharp, quick witted and extremely popular character in Aunt Sal that the audience will never forget.
"Just as those who worked with her at EastEnders will never forget her warmth, kindness fun and good humour. Our love and thoughts are with Anna's family and friends."
Karen was the last surviving main cast member of On The Buses, having starred as the lovable Olive in the comedy between 1969 and 1973.
Neil Wilkes
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