Anna Karen - who was the last surviving star of the hit ITV sitcom On The Buses - has died in a house fire at the age of 85.
The actress, who played Olive Rudge in the programme from 1969 to 1973, died in east London on Tuesday night.
Karen was also known for her role as Aunt Sal in Eastenders and appeared in some of the Carry On films.
The Metropolitan Police said the circumstances of the fire on Windsor Road in Ilford do not appear to be suspicious.
Karen's agent Shane Collins told the PA news agency: "It is a terrible tragedy. I loved Anna. I've known her since I was a kid and she's been the most wonderful lady.
"I’ve been privileged to look after her as her agent for the last few years."
Mr. Collins added that Karen, who was born in South Africa, was best friends with the late Dame Barbara Windsor, adding: "It’s just very, very sad."
An EastEnders spokesperson said: "We are deeply saddened to hear that Anna Karen has passed away.
"Anna created a sharp, quick-witted and extremely popular character in Aunt Sal that the audience will never forget, just as those who worked with her at EastEnders will never forget her warmth, kindness fun and good humour.
"Our love and thoughts are with Anna’s family and friends."
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) said they were called at 10.40pm and the fire was under control by 11.38pm with around 20 firefighters at the scene.
"Sadly, a woman has died following a house fire on Windsor Road in Ilford. Part of the ground floor of a mid-terrace house was damaged by fire. Sadly a woman was pronounced dead at the scene," LFB said.
The Metropolitan Police said formal identification is still to take place, adding: "The cause of the fire is under investigation, though early indications suggest it is not suspicious."
