The French and Bulgarian entertainment industries are mourning the death of actress Natalia Dontcheva, who has died at the age of 56 after what her family described as a long illness. Best known to television audiences for her recurring role as Julie Derville in the French adaptation of 'Doc Martin', her passing has prompted tributes from colleagues, friends and fans.
Her death was confirmed by her agent, Laurent Savry, who described Dontcheva as 'a profoundly talented artist and woman of great sensitivity.' While she enjoyed a wide-ranging career across film, television and theatre, many viewers knew her best from her appearances alongside Thierry Lhermitte in 'Doc Martin'.