The Bill actor Roberta Taylor dies at 76 after a tragic fall that caused health issues

The beloved British television actress Roberta Taylor, known for her memorable roles in The Bill and EastEnders, has passed away at the age of 76. Her death comes after a prolonged struggle with health issues following a tragic fall. Roberta's passing marks the end of an era for her fans and the television industry.

 
Roberta Taylor’s career was marked by versatility and depth, bringing to life characters that resonated with audiences for decades. Born in Plaistow, East London, she was the daughter of bus conductor Winifred Roberts and Robert Archer, a "clippy" on London buses. Growing up in a modest household, Roberta was raised by her mother, grandmother, and aunts on the Isle of Dogs after her father walked out on the family.

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Despite leaving school without qualifications, Roberta's passion for acting never wavered. She began her career working as a secretary before marrying ropemaker Victor Taylor in 1966, with whom she had a son, Elliott. Her journey into acting began when an elderly friend from Portobello Market encouraged her to audition for drama school. Roberta took acting classes while training to be a dental nurse, eventually auditioning for the famous Central School in 1973.

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Her big break came when she landed the role of Irene Raymond, a tough-as-nails character in "EastEnders," a role she played from 1997 to 2000. Her portrayal of Irene brought her into the limelight, capturing the hearts of the British public. Roberta then transitioned to "The Bill," where she played the hard-drinking Inspector Gina Gold from 2002 to 2008. Her performance in "The Bill" further cemented her status as a household name.

 
Roberta's talent wasn't confined to television. She also graced the stage, performing in the West End and with the Royal Shakespeare Company, showcasing her range and dedication to her craft. Her last significant television role was in the comedy-drama "Shakespeare & Hathaway," where she continued to exhibit her acting prowess.
The accident that led to her demise occurred two months prior to her death. Roberta suffered a fall, which resulted in severe health complications, including pneumonia. The fall set her health into a downward spiral, culminating in her passing. Her death is a significant loss to the entertainment industry, as she was a true embodiment of dedication and talent.

 
In a twist of fate, Roberta met her future life partner, Peter Guinness, during her audition at Central School. The couple formed a strong bond, eventually setting up home in Pimlico, central London, before marrying in 1996. Peter Guinness was a constant presence in her life, providing support through her acting career and health battles.

 
Roberta's personal life was filled with as much drama as her on-screen roles. After divorcing her first husband in 1975, she faced numerous challenges but always remained resilient. Her perseverance through personal and professional hardships made her an inspiring figure.

 
Her final public appearance was at a charity event in February, where she was seen with Peter and other stage stars. This event, a quiz hosted by Claudia Winkleman for the homeless charity Centrepoint, provided a glimpse into Roberta's enduring spirit and commitment to giving back to the community. The photograph from this event is thought to be the last public image of her.

 
Roberta Taylor is survived by her husband Peter, her son Elliott, her granddaughter Ellis, and her stepbrothers Lionel and Brian. Her legacy as a gifted actress and a compassionate individual will be remembered fondly by her family, friends, and countless fans.

 
The television industry has lost a remarkable talent, but Roberta Taylor's contributions to British television and theatre will continue to inspire future generations of actors. Her journey from a modest upbringing to becoming a celebrated actress is a testament to her talent, resilience, and indomitable spirit.