Ysanne Churchman, the beloved actress known for her role as Grace Archer in BBC Radio 4’s iconic drama The Archers, has passed away at the age of 99. The news of her death, which occurred peacefully at her home earlier this month, was announced by the BBC on Friday. Churchman’s portrayal of Grace Archer remains one of the most memorable and shocking storylines in the history of the long-running series.
Joining the cast of The Archers in 1951 at the age of 26, Churchman quickly became a household name. However, it was her character’s tragic demise on September 22, 1955, that truly captured the nation’s attention. Grace Archer’s death in a stable fire was a pivotal moment in the show, drawing in an audience of over 20 million listeners. The event overshadowed the launch of ITV, the BBC’s rival television channel, and became a topic of national conversation.
The storyline unfolded dramatically as Grace left a dinner party to retrieve an earring she believed she had left in her car. Upon discovering the stables ablaze, she rushed in to save the horses, only for the building to collapse on her. Despite being rushed to the hospital, she tragically died in the arms of her husband, Phil, after professing her love for him. The couple had only been married for six months, making the loss even more poignant for listeners.
In the aftermath of Grace’s death, many fans were left questioning the decision to kill off such a glamorous and beloved character. The Daily Mirror posed a provocative question at the time: “Was Grace Archer coldly and calmly murdered – to rid the Archers of Ysanne Churchman?” This speculation highlighted the intense emotions surrounding the storyline and the impact it had on the audience.
Years later, in 2015, a BBC Radio 4 docudrama titled “Dead Girls Can Tell No Tales” sought to unravel the mystery behind Churchman’s character’s untimely exit. In a candid revelation, Churchman explained that her character’s death was a result of “victimisation” after she had approached Equity, the actors’ union, to advocate for fair pay. She sought equal compensation to her male co-stars and aimed to ensure that all actors were part of the union. Allegedly, the creator of The Archers, Godfrey Baseley, wanted her out of the show.
Despite the challenges she faced, Churchman maintained a positive outlook. “But don’t feel too sorry for me,” she remarked. “In some ways, Godfrey Baseley may even have done me a favour.” She noted that the very night Grace died, ITV launched and needed experienced voiceover artists, allowing her to thrive in that arena for many years.
Churchman’s connection to The Archers did not end with Grace Archer. She continued to lend her voice to the show, portraying five other characters, with her last role being Mary Pound in 1983. Her talents extended beyond radio, as she also made notable contributions to the world of television, including a role in Doctor Who. In 2017, at the age of 92, she voiced the character of Alpha Centauri, showcasing her enduring talent.
Jeremy Howe, the Editor of The Archers, expressed his sadness at Churchman’s passing, stating, “Ysanne was a wonderful actress, and off air, she campaigned tirelessly for equal pay for women in the industry. She will be much missed by all at The Archers, and our hearts are with her friends and family.”
Churchman’s second cousin, Anne Kilby, shared a heartfelt tribute, describing her as a “warm and friendly person, charming to meet and always elegant.” Kilby noted that Churchman was well cared for in her later years, receiving dedicated support and enjoying visits from friends. She fondly remembered her cousin as “our glamorous grown-up cousin,” a sentiment that reflects the affection many felt for Churchman throughout her life.
Ysanne Churchman’s legacy as an actress and advocate for equal pay in the industry will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike. Her contributions to The Archers and her impact on the world of radio and television have left an indelible mark on the entertainment landscape.
Source: BBC
