RIP Elisabeth Sladen (or Goodbye Sarah Jane Smith)

I was really upset to hear this evening's announcement that the actress Elisabeth Sladen has died at the age of 63, after a long (and well hidden) struggle with cancer. I suspect that a lot of people of my age, who were children in the 1970s, will mourn the death of 'Sarah Jane'.

It's strange how we can let so many tragic news stories wash over us, but feel genuine grief when a much-loved television presenter or actor from our childhood dies. I suppose it's not just because we feel an affection for them, but also because they were part of that secure wall that protects us from the uncomfortable reality of our own mortality. Every time a well-known figure from the older generation dies, the wall weakens and the world becomes slightly less familiar.

The following clip shows Elisabeth Sladen's final scene in Doctor Who (until she revived the character of Sarah Jane Smith 30 years later). It's particularly moving now and also shows what a great actress she was, portraying a character that was both ballsy and vulnerable at the same time:



But it won't just be people of my generation who'll be upset. Elisabeth Sladen's career underwent a spectacular renaissance four years ago with the 'Sarah Jane Adventures'.

What am I going to tell my sons?

Happy Birthday Elisabeth Sladen

If you're of a certain age (i.e over 35 or under 15), then the name Sarah Jane Smith might warm the cockles of your heart. Voted the most popular assistant in Doctor Who's 44-year history, Sarah Jane Smith left the Tardis in 1977, making a triumphant return 29 years later.

Elizabeth Sladen's portrayal of Sarah Jane was more believable than some of the screaming, 'dolly bird' assistants that preceded her. She played a character who was outwardly feisty but had a winning vulnerability.


Shockingly, I read that today is Elizabeth Sladen's 60th birthday! How has she managed to age so well? Has she utilised alien technology to slow down the aging process?

19th April 2011 - I have just posted a brief Elisabeth Sladen tribute in response to the very sad news of her death. Click here to view it.