The British entertainment world is in mourning following the announcement of the death of veteran actress Sheila Bernette at the age of 94. The star, best known for her role in ITV's Coronation Street and the BBC's The Good Old Days, passed away leaving behind a rich legacy of stage and screen work.
A Prolastic Career Spanning Decades
Born Sheila Poncini, Bernette enjoyed a remarkably long and varied career. She first graced television screens in the classic BBC variety show The Good Old Days, where she performed regularly between 1968 and 1983. In the 1970s, she joined the cast of the nation's favourite soap, Coronation Street, playing the character of Sister Delaney.
Her talent saw her share the stage and screen with some of Britain's most legendary entertainers. She worked alongside comedy greats including Sir David Jason, Morecambe and Wise, Dick Emery, Leslie Crowther, and Tommy Cooper. Her film credits included roles in Three For All, Car Trouble, and Driving Aphrodite in 2009, which was her final film appearance.
Remembered by Friends and Colleagues
The Royal Variety Charity released a statement honouring her memory. It said, "Sheila will be very much missed by many of those who worked with her and those from the wider theatrical family." Actor and close friend Peter Kosta shared heartfelt personal memories.
"I was looking for digs, and Sheila said: 'Well, if you’re clean, I have a spare room in my house,'" he recalled. "She always supported me in everything that I wanted to do, and always came to see me in everything I did. I have extremely fond memories of her." He described her as "very funny" and "very feisty", noting he had visited her for nearly two hours shortly before her death, where they reminisced about the 'good old days'.
A Legacy for Newer Generations
While older audiences remember her from classic TV, younger viewers will know Sheila Bernette from her role in the CBBC children's comedy Hotel Trubble. Between 2008 and 2011, she played the permanently resident hotel guest, Mrs Poshington. She also appeared in the UK version of Candid Camera.
Her passing marks the end of an era for the British variety and television scene. Sheila Bernette's career, which spanned over five decades, showcased her versatility and enduring appeal, cementing her place in the history of UK entertainment.
