View Full Version : Gretchen has died :(
Actress Gretchen Franklin - who played Ethel Skinner in EastEnders - died yesterday at the age of 94.
Gretchen assumed the role of Ethel for 15 years until her character was killed off in a highly emotional and controversial storyline involving an administered overdose of tablets.
The actress dedicated most of her private life to charity and donated any royalties she received from EastEnders repeats.
She once said: “At my age one isn’t buying new fur coats and diamonds. If you get that lot of repeat fees four times a year you can afford to be a bit more generous to other people.”
I'm so upset. She was a legend. That shrill voice ringing through the Square. I'll never forget dear old Ethel nor the fantastic actress who played her.
It's so sad. I was just saying about this the other day to my friend on MSN how most of the EE cast are still alive in real life with the exception of the odd few and we mentioned Gretchen! OMG I cannot get over it. So upsetting. R.I.P.
It is very upsetting. I dont really know what else to say sorry. We have to think positive, she's in a better place now. R.I.P.
angelblue
12-07-2005, 13:24
Yep it very upsetting
may she rest in peace she died turly being a top legend and will be greatly missed may hearts and memories being with her :crying:
That's what we all say love. Doesn't make bereavement any easier.
I was brought up my grandparents and they went and died on me, left me well and truly on my own. I had to move back home and out of my protective bubble.
I still find myself some mornings sitting on the sofa drinking my coffee at about 3 in the morning when everybody is sleeping. Musing over things, I still find myself crying, it never gets any easier. You think time heals but it's a useless healer really. You have to hang onto the positive memories because otherwise you'll just get eaten up.
You'll never stop missing a loved one when they're gone and you can never explain the pain to someone until they've suffered a personal loss themselves. Unfortunately it's something we all have to go through at some stage in our lives.
angelblue
12-07-2005, 13:29
I am sorry babes your right it doesnt make things easier its still very upsetting :crying:
I am sorry dIdnt mean to sound heartless :crying:
very sad, may she rest in peace
I am sorry babes your right it doesnt make things easier its still very upsetting :crying:
It is but you have to realise at the end of the day we're all going in the same direction. It doesn't matter whether you're rich or poor or what job you have, we're all going no matter what. I wish life didn't involve family and people you form close relationships with. You NEED them but it's heartbreaking when you lose them. I kind of hope or wish life was all about you being on your own. It might not be as good but hey you're not going to be left in pieces when everybody's gone around you are you?
You never forget what people sound like, what they look like, the little things they did everyday things. I can remember when I was fourteen, me school uniform would have been on that radiator without fail. I lost both my grandparents before I was 17 and I moved back home. It was hard to adjust at first. I didn't have cups of tea and a meal on the table when I wanted it, I had to learn how to use the oven myself. People went to work, the whole atmosphere of the house was so much busier. Just not safe and warm like what I was used to. I honestly cannot explain the depth of the pain I suffered when I realised I was on my own to build my own life etc...
I've done things in life they would not be proud of and I'm glad in a way they're not here to see them but one things for sure they loved me and that's all I need to know.
.:SpIcYsPy:.
12-07-2005, 13:34
May she rest in peace.
I agree, truly a legend and never forgotten.
angelblue
12-07-2005, 13:40
Are you okay walford queen take care babes :)
Well I'm fine now hun wasn't then though.
I had a lot of problems afterwards but hey I got through them I saw the 12th of July 2005 that's sacred to me as is each day because each one is one I never thought I had.
WQ, take it easy. Make sure that you drink plenty of water in this heat.
Look at your kids and remember the disney movies - the great circle of life.
This life is what me make of it, it is the journey that matters not the destination. A lot of cliches are based in fact. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you etc.
A new world starts today...
angelblue
12-07-2005, 13:54
I am sure your grandparents are very proud of you and are smiling and looking down on you each day :)
WQ I didnt mean to sound heartless early i am not very good in these situation :)
Thanks Trinity it's all a long time ago but I'll never forget that period of my life. Totally wrecked my teens, stuff happened. I don't blame anybody though, people weren't to know. I'm fine now though. I've moved on a great deal but thinking back is horrible. I suppose I got through it because I thought it's one life and maybe only one...
That's why I feel great depth and emotion for those who lose loved ones because it doesn't just bring on bereavment it can bring on lasting damage and suffering.
It's going to take us and all eventually...well that's nature I suppose. We're all going there wherever there is, we're just shaping the paths we take on our way.
Anyways I'm sure Ethel will be remembered. I wonder if they'll show an "In memory" message at the end of an EastEnders episode?
We're sad to announce that Gretchen Franklin died on Monday at the age of 94.
Gretchen Franklin was an extremely talented actress. In her role as Ethel Skinner she created one of soap's best loved characters. The news of her death has brought great sadness to the cast and crew of EastEnders.
June Brown (Dot) pays tribute to a dear friend:
"I was hoping to celebrate her birthday last week, but she wasn't strong enough. Unfortunately she faded away on Monday, so there wasn't time. She always soldiered on, never complaining. She seemed such an indomitable person you felt she would go on forever. I will miss her very much."
Wendy Richard (Pauline) recalls happy times:
"I was upset when June phoned me with the news. My first ever scene on the Square was with Gretchen. It was blizzard conditions and I felt like turning it in there and then, but she kept me going. She was such a character and made us all laugh. She had amazing vitality even at 80. She was a great professional and will be very missed."
Pam St Clement (Pat) praises her talent:
"I was sad to hear of the death of Gretchen Franklin. I was very fond of her. As an actress she had a rare talent. She moved us to tears in moments of pathos and to laughter with her impeccable comedy timing. Some of the scenes between her and June Brown are landmarks in the long history of EastEnders."
Adam Woodyatt (Ian) remembers her wit:
"I'll always remember her doing the can-can in the Vic! Gretchen was an absolute acid-wit. She was always brilliant for a quip or two and used to put us younger ones in our place. I learnt bundles from her. She was a lovely lady and will be greatly missed."
Letitia Dean (Sharon) has fond memories:
"Gretchen and I were very fond of each other and got on extremely well. One minute she could make you cry in a scene and the next have you in fits of laughter with her comedic timing. She had more energy than the rest of us put together. She's a one off and I will miss her very much."
i hope they do walford queen!
RIP gretchen
i_luv_dennis
12-07-2005, 16:21
she was a really good actor
One of the best in the bizz.
***sharon rules***
12-07-2005, 16:25
rip
i_luv_dennis
12-07-2005, 16:31
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b137/i_luv_dennis/160x120_eastenders_gretchenfranklin.jpg
Oh my god, i only just found out, that is so sad, i'm like in tears she is amazinbg, ethel was fantastic!
Still can't believe that
here is the full article:
Tributes Paid To A Talented Actress
Sad News
Much loved Gretchen Franklin (Ethel Skinner) has died, aged 94. The cast and crew will miss her greatly.
We're sad to announce that Gretchen Franklin died on Monday at the age of 94.
Gretchen Franklin was an extremely talented actress. In her role as Ethel Skinner she created one of soap's best loved characters. The news of her death has brought great sadness to the cast and crew of EastEnders.
June Brown (Dot) pays tribute to a dear friend:
"I was hoping to celebrate her birthday last week, but she wasn't strong enough. Unfortunately she faded away on Monday, so there wasn't time. She always soldiered on, never complaining. She seemed such an indomitable person you felt she would go on forever. I will miss her very much."
Wendy Richard (Pauline) recalls happy times:
"I was upset when June phoned me with the news. My first ever scene on the Square was with Gretchen. It was blizzard conditions and I felt like turning it in there and then, but she kept me going. She was such a character and made us all laugh. She had amazing vitality even at 80. She was a great professional and will be very missed."
Pam St Clement (Pat) praises her talent:
"I was sad to hear of the death of Gretchen Franklin. I was very fond of her. As an actress she had a rare talent. She moved us to tears in moments of pathos and to laughter with her impeccable comedy timing. Some of the scenes between her and June Brown are landmarks in the long history of EastEnders."
Adam Woodyatt (Ian) remembers her wit:
"I'll always remember her doing the can-can in the Vic! Gretchen was an absolute acid-wit. She was always brilliant for a quip or two and used to put us younger ones in our place. I learnt bundles from her. She was a lovely lady and will be greatly missed."
Letitia Dean (Sharon) has fond memories:
"Gretchen and I were very fond of each other and got on extremely well. One minute she could make you cry in a scene and the next have you in fits of laughter with her comedic timing. She had more energy than the rest of us put together. She's a one off and I will miss her very much."
:crying:
WQ honey, hope your aok, luv ya loads honey
xxx
Oh my god, i only just found out, that is so sad, i'm like in tears she is amazinbg, ethel was fantastic!
Still can't believe that
here is the full article:
Tributes Paid To A Talented Actress
Sad News
Much loved Gretchen Franklin (Ethel Skinner) has died, aged 94. The cast and crew will miss her greatly.
We're sad to announce that Gretchen Franklin died on Monday at the age of 94.
Gretchen Franklin was an extremely talented actress. In her role as Ethel Skinner she created one of soap's best loved characters. The news of her death has brought great sadness to the cast and crew of EastEnders.
June Brown (Dot) pays tribute to a dear friend:
"I was hoping to celebrate her birthday last week, but she wasn't strong enough. Unfortunately she faded away on Monday, so there wasn't time. She always soldiered on, never complaining. She seemed such an indomitable person you felt she would go on forever. I will miss her very much."
Wendy Richard (Pauline) recalls happy times:
"I was upset when June phoned me with the news. My first ever scene on the Square was with Gretchen. It was blizzard conditions and I felt like turning it in there and then, but she kept me going. She was such a character and made us all laugh. She had amazing vitality even at 80. She was a great professional and will be very missed."
Pam St Clement (Pat) praises her talent:
"I was sad to hear of the death of Gretchen Franklin. I was very fond of her. As an actress she had a rare talent. She moved us to tears in moments of pathos and to laughter with her impeccable comedy timing. Some of the scenes between her and June Brown are landmarks in the long history of EastEnders."
Adam Woodyatt (Ian) remembers her wit:
"I'll always remember her doing the can-can in the Vic! Gretchen was an absolute acid-wit. She was always brilliant for a quip or two and used to put us younger ones in our place. I learnt bundles from her. She was a lovely lady and will be greatly missed."
Letitia Dean (Sharon) has fond memories:
"Gretchen and I were very fond of each other and got on extremely well. One minute she could make you cry in a scene and the next have you in fits of laughter with her comedic timing. She had more energy than the rest of us put together. She's a one off and I will miss her very much."
:crying:
WQ honey, hope your aok, luv ya loads honey
xxx
Awwww (((Hugs))) Thanks so much babe. Luv ya too :thumbsup:
It is so sad. I'm going to watch some of her old episodes later on. She really was a legend.
I hope they do a tribute prog of her best moments.
Awwww (((Hugs))) Thanks so much babe. Luv ya too :thumbsup:
It is so sad. I'm going to watch some of her old episodes later on. She really was a legend.
aw bless, she was a legend, *hugs*
Another article from BBC News
Obituary: Gretchen Franklin
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41295000/jpg/_41295019_eth_will_1985_203.jpg Gretchen Franklin rose to fame on EastEnders with her pug dog Willy
Gretchen Franklin, who has died at the age of 94, spent nearly 80 years in showbusiness.
But she enjoyed her greatest fame as the elderly Ethel, a favourite character in BBC soap EastEnders.
Her monologues with her pug dog, "my little Willy", provided some of the show's lightest relief.
She was born in south-west London, into a theatrical family. Her father had a song-and-dance act, while her grandfather was a well-known music hall entertainer at the turn of the century.
So it was no surprise when the teenage Gretchen Franklin made her debut as a pantomime chorus girl in Bournemouth at £2 a week.
In her words, she was just a rather plump little girl. "But I was very ambitious," she said.
Stuck on stage
In 1929, she took dancing lessons at the Theatre Girls Club in Soho in London's West End.
She soon became a renowned tap dancer and founder member of a quartet known as Four Brilliant Blondes.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/40531000/jpg/_40531843_800comedy.jpg Franklin was the first Mrs Alf Garnett in the Til Death Do Us Part pilot
She toured with the Gracie Fields Show, married Caswell Garth - a writer of revue sketches - and performed with another dance group, The Three Girlies, before making a gradual switch to straight dramatic roles.
Franklin appeared in several productions for the BBC and on stage.
She was playing in the West End in Spring and Port Wine in 1965 when she became the first Mrs Alf Garnett in a pilot episode of Til Death Us Do Part, with Warren Mitchell.
But she missed the chance to become a permanent part in what was to become a hugely successful series - because she couldn't obtain her release from her stage role.
Controversial storyline
During the 1970s, Gretchen Franklin starred in two soaps, Crossroads and the short-lived Castle Haven.
But it was EastEnders, where she played Ethel Skinner, that made her a familiar figure for 15 million viewers.
She exchanged gossip and bickered with her bosom pal, Dot Cotton, as she shamelessly exploited any opportunity to celebrate in the Queen Vic.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41295000/jpg/_41295365_etheldot_203.jpg Ethel (r) with her stalwart sidekick Dot, played by June Brown
In 1999, Ethel left Albert Square and the series.
But she was back a year later, a twinkle still in her eye as she enjoyed her favourite tipple.
And Franklin was to be at the centre of one of the series' most dramatic storylines, as Dot Cotton helped Ethel to end her life.
Whether on or off the EastEnders set, Franklin was an irrepressible spirit. While 15 million viewers watched her TV funeral in 2000, she confessed that she didn't. And she added, with characteristic mischief: "I won't miss being on the show, but I will miss the salary."
Another article from BBC News
Obituary: Gretchen Franklin
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41295000/jpg/_41295019_eth_will_1985_203.jpg Gretchen Franklin rose to fame on EastEnders with her pug dog Willy
Gretchen Franklin, who has died at the age of 94, spent nearly 80 years in showbusiness.
But she enjoyed her greatest fame as the elderly Ethel, a favourite character in BBC soap EastEnders.
Her monologues with her pug dog, "my little Willy", provided some of the show's lightest relief.
She was born in south-west London, into a theatrical family. Her father had a song-and-dance act, while her grandfather was a well-known music hall entertainer at the turn of the century.
So it was no surprise when the teenage Gretchen Franklin made her debut as a pantomime chorus girl in Bournemouth at £2 a week.
In her words, she was just a rather plump little girl. "But I was very ambitious," she said.
Stuck on stage
In 1929, she took dancing lessons at the Theatre Girls Club in Soho in London's West End.
She soon became a renowned tap dancer and founder member of a quartet known as Four Brilliant Blondes.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/40531000/jpg/_40531843_800comedy.jpg Franklin was the first Mrs Alf Garnett in the Til Death Do Us Part pilot
She toured with the Gracie Fields Show, married Caswell Garth - a writer of revue sketches - and performed with another dance group, The Three Girlies, before making a gradual switch to straight dramatic roles.
Franklin appeared in several productions for the BBC and on stage.
She was playing in the West End in Spring and Port Wine in 1965 when she became the first Mrs Alf Garnett in a pilot episode of Til Death Us Do Part, with Warren Mitchell.
But she missed the chance to become a permanent part in what was to become a hugely successful series - because she couldn't obtain her release from her stage role.
Controversial storyline
During the 1970s, Gretchen Franklin starred in two soaps, Crossroads and the short-lived Castle Haven.
But it was EastEnders, where she played Ethel Skinner, that made her a familiar figure for 15 million viewers.
She exchanged gossip and bickered with her bosom pal, Dot Cotton, as she shamelessly exploited any opportunity to celebrate in the Queen Vic.
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/41295000/jpg/_41295365_etheldot_203.jpg Ethel (r) with her stalwart sidekick Dot, played by June Brown
In 1999, Ethel left Albert Square and the series.
But she was back a year later, a twinkle still in her eye as she enjoyed her favourite tipple.
And Franklin was to be at the centre of one of the series' most dramatic storylines, as Dot Cotton helped Ethel to end her life.
Whether on or off the EastEnders set, Franklin was an irrepressible spirit. While 15 million viewers watched her TV funeral in 2000, she confessed that she didn't. And she added, with characteristic mischief: "I won't miss being on the show, but I will miss the salary."
Absolutely amazing! That's all I have to say. Such a legend :)
That was a brill storyline with ethel and dot.
I remember crying when Ethel died.
This is so sad it wa bad enough when Ethel dies in Easties but for the acutal actress to die is even sadder, still she was a good age:(
Congratulations on becoming blue Babe14 x
Yeah it was a good age, she was the oldest EastEnders cast member, now the crown goes to the fabulous Anna Wing who played Lou Beale. She's 91!
its so sad. i couldnt really remeber her but those pictures have reminded me. She was amazing in it.
She was definately one of the icons not just in the programme but in British soap on the whole.
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