Jane Whittenshaw, EastEnders and Call the Midwife actor, dies

Jane Whittenshaw, the actor best known for appearing in EastEnders and Call the Midwife, has died.

A statement from her agent said she died last weekend, with her husband, Hugh, best friend and carers at her side. The cause of death has not been disclosed.

Whittenshaw rose to fame as social worker Anita Banks in EastEnders in the late 1990s. She also appeared in police drama The Bill, Silent Witness, Grange Hill, Green Wing and Endeavour.

She also worked in theatre, film and radio throughout her career.

Whittenshaw performed on stage for the Royal Shakespeare Company and had roles in the films Invasion, Mrs Dalloway and Golden Years.

The actor was also a member of the BBC Radio Drama Company and recorded more than 500 radio plays. Her final role was in the 2022 All 4 comedy series I Hate You.

In a statement, her agency, Stanton Davidson Associates, said: “It is with profound sadness we must announce the passing of Jane Whittenshaw, a much-loved and highly respected client of over 30 years.

“She slipped away peacefully on Saturday last, with her husband, Hugh, best friend, Rebecca, and carers at her side.

“As well as an esteemed client, Jane was a dear friend, who was generous to a fault and great fun to be around. She was an immensely talented actor and a voice superstar, who leaves an extraordinary legacy of over 500 radio plays, courtesy of multiple stints on the BBC Radio Rep and many independent productions.

“She was a true professional, an absolute joy to work with and loved by all who did so. We offer our sincerest condolences to Hugh and the family.”

In the BBC series Call the Midwife, Whittenshaw played Nurse Barrington, a character who appeared in the 2017 series.

She also appeared in the detective series Broadchurch, where she portrayed Linda.

Lorelei King, the actor, wrote on social media: “I am so sorry to hear of the death of Jane Whittenshaw. She was wonderful to work with, and so talented.”