The tragic news broke this morning.
Britain’s longest serving soap star has died (Image: BBC)
The Archers star Patricia Greene, who is Britain’s longest serving soap star, has sadly died. She was 94 years old, and best known for playing Jill Archer in the BBC radio soap opera from 1957 until the time of her death. An announcement at the end of BBC’s Today programme announced the sad news, stating: “Patricia Greene, who played Jill Archer in The Archers since 1956, has died.”
Patricia moved into an assisted living facility in August 2023, but continued to record for the programme. Patricia was married twice – first to actor George Selway, who she tied the knot with in 1959, and then to Cyril Austen Richardson in 1972 after her divorce. The pair welcomed a son together, but Cyril sadly died and made Patricia a widow in 1986.
When Patricia first moved into Cliveden Manor Care Home, a spokesperson from its owner Avery Healthcare said of the star: “The home allows Patricia to maintain her independence and continue her professional commitments while benefiting from a tranquil and supportive community.
“Patricia’s remarkable career, combined with the care and support she receives at Cliveden Manor Care Home, highlights how Avery Healthcare helps residents maintain their independence while providing the care they need to live life to the fullest.”
Tributes have flooded in for the actress, who was affectionately known as Paddy.
The Archers editor Jeremy Howe told Digital Spy: “Paddy was utterly singular, a fabulous and raucously funny raconteur.
“Like the best actors when on mic you were never quite sure how she would play a scene, but you knew she would play it brilliantly.”
Tributes flooded in for Patricia (Image: Getty)
He added: “Her portrayal of Jill was formidable, but also wonderfully warm, loving and enormous fun. It was an incredible privilege to work with her.”
One fan said: “Extremely sad news. Patricia Greene has died at the age of 95. She played Jill Archer on The Archers since 1957 and was heard as recently as September last year. She was the longest serving soap actor in the world.”
Another echoed: “What a sad, sad day. Patricia Greene (Jill Archer) has died. We shall have a lemon drizzle cake, or flapjacks for tea.”
