The British entertainment world is in mourning following the sudden death of celebrated actress Marian Diamond at the age of 89.
Heartfelt Tributes from Friends and Colleagues
News of her passing was confirmed by her close friend, actress Miriam Margolyes, in an emotional social media tribute. Margolyes revealed that Diamond died at University College Hospital in London on Monday, January 5. The Harry Potter star described feeling "utterly bereft" at the loss of a "unique spirit."
"We first met in Edinburgh, I think in 1968 at the Traverse Theatre, and I loved her from then on," Margolyes wrote. She fondly remembered Diamond as "one of the angels in our business, endlessly generous, interested in others and thrilled by their success." She added that her late friend was "beautiful, gentle, full of fun, wise and perceptive."
Long-time friend and stage manager Paul Jackson also paid tribute, stating he was "deeply saddened" by the news. He noted Diamond had been battling health issues in recent years but was thrilled to have seen her in December 2024 at a special screening of a recovered episode of Play School.
A Distinguished Career on Air and Screen
Marian Diamond enjoyed a long and varied career, becoming a familiar voice to generations of British audiences. She was a beloved presenter on the iconic children's programme Play School and narrated episodes of the classic storytelling series Jackanory, often working with C.S. Lewis books.
Her most famous voice role was as the ethereal 'Lady of the Woods' Galadriel in the acclaimed 1981 BBC radio dramatisation of J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. On television, her credits spanned decades, from 1960s shows like The Avengers and Sherlock Holmes to later roles in Brookside, The Ruth Rendell Mysteries, and The Armando Iannucci Shows.
A Legacy of Kindness and Talent
Beyond her professional work, friends remembered Diamond for her gentle nature and charitable efforts. Paul Jackson noted she "did much work away from acting helping people." Miriam Margolyes concluded her tribute by expressing hope that Diamond's surviving family—the sons of her late sister, casting director Gillian Diamond—would share funeral details so her friends could fill the service. "She deserves a full house," Margolyes wrote.
The actress was predeceased by her sister Gillian and close friend, actor Hugh Dickson, both of whom died in 2018. The entertainment industry has lost a cherished talent whose distinctive voice and warm presence touched countless lives across radio, television, and stage.
