Beloved Love Actually Actor and Narnia Inspiration Jill Freud Passes Away at 98
Jill Freud, best known for her role in the iconic film *Love Actually* and as the inspiration for Lucy Pevensie in C.S. Lewis’s *Narnia* series, has passed away at the age of 98. The announcement of her death was made by her daughter, Emma Freud, a writer and broadcaster, who shared a heartfelt message about her mother’s last moments.
Remembering Jill Freud
Emma Freud conveyed that her mother spent her final evening surrounded by family. She recalled, “My beautiful 98-year-old mum has taken her final bow.” Jill’s last words were expressions of love, showcasing her vibrant spirit until the end.
A Life During the Blitz
Jill Freud’s life took a significant turn at the age of 16 when she was evacuated to Oxford during World War II. It was during this time that she lived with the beloved author C.S. Lewis for three years. Emma noted that Lewis drew inspiration from Jill for the character of Lucy Pevensie in *The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe*. In a touching letter, Lewis praised Jill’s “unselfishness and patience,” highlighting the profound influence she had on him.
A Flourishing Career in Theatre
Jill embarked on a successful acting career with support from C.S. Lewis, who helped fund her education at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). In addition to acting, she produced and directed two repertory theatre companies in Suffolk for over thirty years. Her companies, the Jill Freud and Company and the Southwold Summer Theatre, were known for fostering talent and supporting actors’ rights.
- Jill Freud married Clement Freud, a broadcaster and Liberal MP, in 1950.
- They raised five children together; Clement passed away in 2009.
Iconic Roles and Family Life
Freud appeared in various films and television shows, including *The Woman in the Hall* and *Maigret*. Her memorable role in *Love Actually* as Pat, the housekeeper at Downing Street, positioned her alongside stars like Hugh Grant and Martine McCutcheon.
In her tribute, Emma shared delightful anecdotes about Jill’s everyday life. Even during the pandemic at age 93, Jill maintained her spirited lifestyle by participating in a morning tap class with her family. She was described as a grandmother of 17 and a great-grandmother of 7, characterized by her feisty, loving, and mischievous nature.
Jill Freud’s legacy will continue to resonate through her contributions to the arts and her loving family. Her passion for theatre and her nurturing spirit have touched many lives.
