Ex-EastEnders Actress Josephine Melville Dies Backstage After Play

Nottingham Playhouse announced that the actress died backstage on Thursday after appearing in a production of Nine Night.

Report says she died at the scene after receiving assistance from the paramedic and a medically qualified audience member.

In a statement, Playhouse said “we are deeply saddened to announce that last night (Oct 20), the actor Josephine Melville, passed away following the performance of Nine Night, our co-production with Leeds Playhouse. Our thoughts and deep condolence are with her family and loved ones”.

The late 61 year old had been playing the part of Aunt Maggie in the play, which was a co-production with Leeds Playhouse. Nottingham Playhouse’s Chief executive, Stephanie Sirr, said “We send our love and condolences to Jo’s family and friends. On a deeply tragic and extremely difficult evening we want to pay tribute to the company of Nine Night and to the whole Nottingham Playhouse team who managed the situation with empathy and professionalism.”

Leeds playhouse’s chief executive James Brining said “We are profoundly saddened by Jo’s passing and add our condolences to her family and loved ones. We were truly honored to work with her on this wonderful co-production of Nine Night and are doing everything we can to support her family, the company and staff across both theatres”.

The venue has cancelled all remaining performances of Nine Night.

SOURCE: BBC NEWS