Actress Margaret Tyzack has passed away at the age of 79.
The actress died surrounded by her family at her home on Saturday. BBC News reports that she was believed to be suffering from cancer.
Tyzack made her name playing the character of Winifred in the 1967 BBC adaptation of The Forsythe Saga and most recently had a short-lived stint on Eastenders as Lydia Simmonds, Janine Malloy's (Charlie Brooks) grandmother.
She withdrew from the role in April due to ill health and was replaced by Heather Chasen. The character passed away on-screen earlier this month.
Paying tribute to the actress, Eastenders' executive producer Bryan Kirkwood said: "I'm so sad to hear the tragic news about Margaret. Even though we only worked together for a brief time, Margaret made a great impact with EastEnders.
"She was a fabulous actress and an inspiration to us all and she will be sorely missed. Our thoughts are with her family."
Tyzack's agent said in a statement that the actress would be remembered for "her outstanding contribution to the world of theatre, film and television and for the support and inspiration she gave to young actors".
