Grange Hill star and ‘trailblazing’ actress Cleo Sylvestre dies aged 79

Grange Hill and Crossroads actor Cleo Sylvestre wearing a leopard print T-shirt — Cleo Sylvestre performed in countless hit shows, films and theatrical productions (Picture: Geoffrey Swaine/REX)

Cleo Sylvestre, an actress who starred in numerous TV shows and films, has died aged 79, her agent confirmed.

Sylvestre was known for her roles in hit programmes Grange Hill, The Bill, Till Death Do Us Part and New Tricks, while on the big screen she starred in films including Paddington and Kidulthood.

After a brief appearance in Coronation Street, she became the first-ever regular black British female character on British TV, in Crossroads, playing Meg Richardson’s adopted daughter Melanie from 1970 to 1972.

Announcing Sylvestre’s death this evening, a statement from Fulcrum Talent said: ‘It is with deep regret that I have to announce the sad news that Cleo Sylvestre MBE died this morning.

‘Much loved and admired by her peers, she will be remembered as a trailblazer and a true friend. She will be sorely missed by so many.

‘We ask that you respect the privacy of her family at this difficult time.’

Cleo Sylvestre in Grange Hill as a social worker wearing a pink top — Sylvestre had a regular role in Grange Hill as a social worker (Picture: BBC)

Susan Hanson, as Diane Parker, with Cleo Sylvestre as Melanie Harper, the adopted daughter of Meg Richardsonin Crossroads — She became the first-ever regular black British female character on British TV in Crossroads (Picture: ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

https://twitter.com/EAnionwu/status/1837171534282006533

On X, Sylvestre’s fans and loved ones paid tribute, including Dame Elizabeth Anionwu who said: ‘Devastated to learn of the death of Cleo Sylvestre, my wonderful, kind friend. Amongst many activities, she was a great supporter of the Mary Seacole Statue Appeal. I cherish this 2016 photo of her dressed as Mary Seacole, at the unveiling of the memorial statue. Rest well Cleo.’

@GeoffreyMunn1 shared: ‘The wonderful Cleo Sylvestre MBE died early this morning 1945-2024. Despite a very challenging upbringing she walked out into the limelight as an actress and singer who radiated modest charm and joy wherever she went. She will be greatly missed.’

Sylvestre also sang as Cleo with the Rolling Stones backing her on a cover of To Know Him Is To Love Him in 1964 and continued to be a musician with her blues band Honey B Mama And Friends.

In 2023, she was at Buckingham Palace as she was made an MBE for services to drama and charity.

Her most recent screen roles included ITV thriller Platform 7, and Channel 5’s revamp of All Creatures Great And Small.