Actress Maggie Fox who starred in Coronation Street and Shameless has died after a 'sudden accident'. Her family was with her when she died, her comedy partner Sue Ryding said.
MirrorOnline reports that Maggie had played two roles in Coronation Street, her most significant role was that of Ruth Audsley in 2001. She had also starred in The Forsyte Saga in 2002 and 2003.
Sue Ryding wrote on Facebook "It is with great sadness that I have to announce the death of Maggie Fox, my comedy partner of 40 years and co-Artistic Director of LipService. Maggie passed away yesterday with her family around her."
She added on Facebook: "Consequently the Spring Tour of Chateau Ghoul has been cancelled. As you can imagine I am completely heartbroken."
Writing on the LipService website, she said: "I met Maggie when we were Drama students at Bristol University in the 1970's. We were in a very serious production of Ibsen's The Lady For the Sea but for some reason the audience was on the floor laughing.
"A tragedy for Ibsen (he was good at those) but the launch of an epic comedy partnership. Our theatre company LipService was officially launched in 1985 and we have written 22 original comedies, touring all over the world, managing to have children in between!
"We are still all in a state of shock as this was very sudden following an accident. We had planned a new digital version of Chateau Ghoul which we had already filmed which will be shared with you later in the year in memory of Maggie, plus some live events using the huge amount of digital footage we thankfully have archived.
"Details to be published when have a plan. Thank you for supporting us over all these years, we are so lucky to have such a loyal audience. We do hope you will join us to celebrate her comedy genius later in the year. Sue."
Details of the accident have not been revealed. Fans have paid tribute to the soap star who had a role in Shameless in 2006 and TV series Accused in 2010.
David Benedict wrote: "Terrible, terrible news. Your work together was sublime and quite ridiculously funny. My deepest condolences on the loss of your dear and brilliant friend."
Neil McKenna said: "Such dreadfully sad, shocking news Sue. Such a wonderful partnership and friendship you had with Maggie, it was always such fun to watch you both on stage."
Tracy Excell wrote: "Sending you love and sincere condolences on the loss of your dear partner in comedy - so privileged to have seen almost 30 years of your wonderful work together xx"
