Home / Arts and Entertainment / West End Star, Early ITV Icon, Dies at 99
West End Star, Early ITV Icon, Dies at 99
24 Aug
Summary
- Sheila Mathews, a West End performer, was an early ITV star.
- Equity recognized her in 2017 as the country's longest-running performer.
- She made her stage debut at age three and continued performing for decades.
Sheila Mathews, a distinguished West End musical performer and an early star of ITV, has died at the age of 99. She was recognized by Equity in 2017 as the country's longest-running performer. Her remarkable career began with a stage debut at just three years old in London. Mathews later partnered with Eric Morecambe early in his career and performed alongside notable figures like Sid Field and Tommy Trinder.
Returning to Britain for the launch of ITV in 1955, she featured in its opening programs and hosted her own weekend show, 'Friday's Girl.' She also presented 'ad-mags' and appeared in regional variety shows. Her West End career included understudying Anna Neagle in 'Charlie Girl' and Lauren Bacall in 'Applause,' even taking over lead roles.
Mathews also ventured into straight acting, appearing in the ITV soap 'Crossroads' in 1974. Her earlier years saw film appearances, including a role as Charles Laughton's daughter in 'Rembrandt.' Her later career included roles in television sitcoms and provincial stage productions, as well as returning to musicals and performing with the Players Theatre music hall company.
