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Victoria Smurfit on Jilly Cooper's Death: 'Our Queen'
10 May
Summary
- Actress Victoria Smurfit described the late author Jilly Cooper as 'our queen'.
- Smurfit learned of Cooper's passing during filming of the 'Rivals' series.
- The Queen visited the 'Rivals' set shortly after Cooper's death.
Irish actress Victoria Smurfit shared poignant memories of the late author Jilly Cooper, whom she referred to as 'our queen'. Smurfit learned of Cooper's unexpected death in October 2025, at the age of 88, while filming the second series of the Disney+ drama 'Rivals'. The news came as a shock, interrupting production in Gloucestershire.
Smurfit, who plays Maud O'Hara in 'Rivals', praised Cooper's 'genius' writing, likening her to 'sunshine with feet'. The series, set in the 1980s Cotswolds, delves into the high-stakes world of British television. Cooper herself was an executive producer for the show.
Following Cooper's memorial service in January 2026, Smurfit noted the author's vivacious spirit, even during a cathedral service where champagne was served, reflecting the 'Jilly' way.
Remarkably, shortly after Cooper's death, the Queen visited the 'Rivals' set in Bristol. Smurfit recounted the Queen's visit, describing her as delightful and hilarious, noting the evident bond between the two friends.
