The British arts world mourns the loss of Jill Freud, the celebrated actor and theatre producer who passed away at the remarkable age of 98. Best known to many as the real-life inspiration for Lucy Pevensie in CS Lewis's beloved Chronicles of Narnia series, Freud forged an extraordinary creative legacy that spanned eight decades in entertainment.
From Wartime Evacuee to Narnia Muse
Born June Flewett in Barnes, south-west London, Freud's life took a dramatic turn during the Second World War when she was evacuated to Oxford as a child. At age 15, she was billeted with an academic known simply as 'Jack' - completely unaware she was living with her favourite author, CS Lewis.
She became a beloved member of the Lewis household for three formative years, with the celebrated author later acknowledging her as the direct inspiration for Lucy Pevensie's character. Those who knew Freud remarked that she carried Lucy's signature curiosity, courage and clear-sighted kindness throughout her entire life.
A Flourishing Theatrical Career
After the war, Lewis generously funded her studies at RADA, where she was a contemporary of the future James Bond actor Roger Moore. Graduating in 1947 under the stage name Jill Raymond, she immediately secured a leading role opposite Jean Simmons in the film The Woman in the Hall.
Her career spanned radio, television and stage, including early work on the BBC Light Service's Torchy the Battery Boy and a notable 1974 stage production of The Dame of Sark with Celia Johnson at London's Wyndham Theatre.
While married to Liberal politician Clement Freud and raising their five children, she maintained an active presence in the arts. However, her most significant creative achievements came in later life.
Coastal Theatre Revolution
In 1980, at age 60, Freud founded Jill Freud & Company, establishing summer repertory seasons in Suffolk's coastal towns of Southwold and Aldeburgh. For three decades, her company became a cherished local institution, bringing high-quality theatre to regional audiences and producing hundreds of plays.
Actors returned year after year, drawn by Freud's fairness, wit and unwavering belief in company members' rights and the vital importance of regional theatre. Her legacy continues each summer in the playhouses she brought to life.
Later Years and Lasting Legacy
Even in her nineties, Freud remained creatively active, recording her final radio play at 95. Film audiences will recognise her cameo as the Downing Street housekeeper in the 2003 Christmas classic Love Actually.
Known for her warmth, keen intelligence and wicked sense of humour, Freud attributed her vitality to having the same lunch daily: a glass of red wine, a packet of crisps and the Guardian.
In recognition of her services to theatre, she received an honorary doctorate from the University of East Anglia in 2001.
Jill Freud is survived by her five children, Nicola, Ashley, Dominic, Matthew and the obituary's author, along with 18 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Her remarkable journey from Narnia muse to theatrical trailblazer leaves an indelible mark on British cultural life.
