Former co-stars and close celebrity friends have issued statements of shock and sadness relating to the death of beloved actress Anna Karen.
The TV and film star tragically died in a house fire on Tuesday night on Windsor Road, Ilford – with the actress unable to be rescued by firefighters and she passed away at the age of 85.
Anna famously played Aunt Sal on EastEnders where she was able to perform alongside lifelong friend Baraba Windsor, who passed away in December 2020 aged 83 and who played Peggy Mitchell on the BBC soap.
Anna also played Olive Rudge on the hit comedy series On The Buses – while film roles included roles on Carry On Camping and Beautiful Thing.
Confirming the tragic news, Anna's family friend told the MailOnline: "We are absolutely horrified at the news about Anna."
While a London Fire Brigade spokesperson confirmed: "Sadly, a woman has died following a house fire on Windsor Road in Ilford."
Barbara Windsor's widower, Scott Mitchell, has led the tributes with a touching statement shared with the MailOnline: "I am desperately sad and shocked to hear of how Anna has passed away.
"Barbara and Anna were lifelong friends and Anna was always what I considered to be Barbara's only real girlfriend.
"Anna had seen Barbara go through every stage of her life and their late night phone calls together before Barbara's illness, will always be a fond memory for me of hearing them put the world to rights.
"Anna and I had kept in regular contact since Barbara's passing and she was a good friend and support to me when things were tough and we spoke a couple of weeks ago. It was a fun chat and I thought how upbeat she sounded.
"We always shared memories and jokes about Barbara. Anna was one of three I asked to speak at Barbara's funeral.
"I will remember her straight talking, great humour and intelligence. May she rest in peace."
Actress Rita Simons, who played Roxy Mitchell in EastEnders, was also heartbroken by the news.
She said: "I just heard the awful news about the wonderful Anna Karen. Horrific and awful and so so sad. She was one of the best. Sleep well lovely Anna. Sending all my love to her family and friends."
Cheryl Baker took to Twitter to share her sadness at the news.
She tweeted: "I have just heard the awful news that my fabulous mate, #AnnaKaren has died in a house fire.
"What an horrific way to die, I can’t bear to think about it. I adored her - She was an absolute treasure, both on and off the screen."
While Carol Challis, the wife of the late Only Fools and Horses star, John Challis, tweeted: "So sorry to hear that Anna Karen has died.John and I met her often at conventions and she was such a lovely lady. Not fair."
Danniella Westbrook, who played Sam Mitchell in Eastenders, said she was devastated by the death on Twitter, adding: "My condolences to her family, may she rest in peace."
