Jane Whittenshaw, a former EastEnders actress, has died.
According to her agency, the actress, well known for her portrayal as Anita Banks, died ‘peacefully’ accompanied by her husband, closest friend, and caretakers.
‘It is with great regret that we must announce the demise of Jane Whittenshaw, a dearly liked and highly valued client of over 30 years,’ said the statement. She died quietly on Saturday, surrounded by her husband Hugh, best friend Rebecca, and caretakers.’
‘As well as a respected customer, Jane was a beloved friend who was generous to a fault and wonderful pleasure to be around,’ it said. She was a tremendously accomplished actor and voice sensation who left an astonishing legacy of over 500 radio plays, thanks to repeated spells on BBC Radio Rep and other independent productions.
‘She was a real professional, a delight to work with, and adored by everybody who knew her. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Hugh and his family.’
Jane first appeared in EastEnders in 1997. Anita, a social worker, was engaged in the narrative in which Mark and Ruth Fowler investigated the possibility of fostering a child.
Following a successful application, Anita supported Mark and Ruth in welcoming their first foster child, Jessie Moore, into the family.
Jane is most recognised for her appearances in Call the Midwife and Broadchurch, in addition to The Bill and Grange Hill.
She portrayed Nurse Barrington, a character from the 2017 season, in the BBC One midwifery drama.
She portrayed Linda in Broadchurch, which followed detectives Alec Hardy (David Tennant) and Ellie Miller (Olivia Colman) as they investigated the rape of Trish Winterman (Julie Hesmondhalgh) in 2017.
