Carry On and The Avengers star Julie Stevens dies aged 87-Meghna Amin-Entertainment – Metro

Actress Julie Stevens has died aged 87 (Picture: GETTY / REX)

Actress Julie Stevens has died aged 87.

The star, who appeared in the Carry On films and The Avengers and appeared on several children’s TV programmes, died after a three-year battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Her daughter Rachel confirmed the news of her death, saying she faced the challenges of her final few years ‘with good humour and great charm’.

She added to The Sun that Stevens ‘will be remembered for her joyful spirit, her ability to make every child feel seen, and her lasting legacy in the world of children’s television’.

Tributes have been paid from fans on social media after a post on Legends of Kids TV said, sent in from Rachel: ‘It’s with sadness I let you know that Julie died on Thursday, after a difficult 3 years with Parkinson’s. Thankfully it was very peaceful at the end.’

Stevens was due to celebrate her 88th birthday in a few weeks.

The star was known for her role as Venus Smith in The Avengers (Picture: Studiocanal/REX/Shutterstock)

The star played Venus Smith in The Avengers from 1962 to 1963, and held presenting roles in Play School in from 164 and Play Away from 1971.

She was also the singer and narrator of schools television show Look and Read, and had appeared in comedy film Carry on Cleo, as well as comedy series Girls About Town.

Her most recent role was in a 2001 episode of Holby City.

Before her career in showbusiness, Stevens trained as a nurse, and as well as holding several roles in children’s TV and comedy, also starred in various adverts.

Stevens was married to fellow Play School presenter John Whaite from 1962 to 1975, and then married Michael Hucks in 1981.

Several fans have taken to X to pay tribute, with @JohnMalt1 writing: ‘Another small piece of my childhood has gone! RIP Julie Stevens.’

‘She was a great singer and actress. An asset to the series. Rest in peace, Julie Stevens,’ @HHarcoy said.

Rodney Marshall wrote: ‘Sad to hear that the very first Avengers girl – Julie Stevens – has passed away. She played nightclub singer and reluctant Steed helper Venus Smith & was in the very first episode my dad wrote. Stevens sung as well as acted in each of her six episodes, each recorded ‘as live’.’

Got a story?

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

Entertainment – MetroRead More