Doc Martin star Natalia Dontcheva has died aged 56 after a decade-long illness.
The Bulgarian actress's stepson, film producer Hugo Selignac, paid tribute to her on Instagram, writing in French alongside a headshot. He said: 'I never liked the title "stepmother" – because when we met, I was no longer a child, and I'd already had a stepmother before.'
'A truly beautiful person'
Selignac continued: 'But you have no idea what a truly beautiful person I found you to be, or how deeply I loved who you were.' He thanked her for the bond she fought to nurture within their family and for the confidence she instilled in him.
He also spoke of her relationship with his father, director Arnaud Selignac, Dontcheva's partner of 25 years. 'Thank you for helping our dad be a better one, but most of all thank you for caring for him for 25 years, thank you for admiring, caring, supporting, forgiving and most of all loving passionately.'
Hinting at Dontcheva's illness, Selignac concluded: 'After a ten-year battle, you are finally going to rest. Enjoy it to the fullest; it's been so long since you've had that chance. I will miss you, my beautiful Natalia.'
Agent confirms death
Dontcheva's agent Laurent Savry confirmed the star's death to The Sun, without sharing further details of her illness. He said: 'It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of Natalia Dontcheva.'
'A profoundly talented artist and woman of great sensitivity, Natalia Dontcheva touched audiences with the precision of her performances, her elegance and her dedication to her craft. Throughout her career, she earned the respect of her co-stars, directors, film crews and all who had the privilege of working alongside her.'
Doc Martin role
Dontcheva played Julie Derville in the Cornwall-set ITV show for four years, appearing across 26 episodes.
