The entertainment world is in mourning as news spreads of the passing of June Spencer, the beloved actress best known for her iconic role as Peggy Woolley on the BBC radio drama The Archers. Spencer died peacefully in her sleep on Friday at the remarkable age of 105, leaving behind an indelible legacy in British radio history.
A Trailblazing Career on The Archers
June Spencer’s illustrious career on The Archers began at the very inception of the show in 1950. She was part of the original cast, lending her talents to multiple characters including Rita Flynn, an Irish baker’s assistant, and a Scottish maid. However, it was the role of Peggy Woolley that would become synonymous with Spencer’s name, a character she portrayed for over seven decades until her retirement in 2022 at the age of 103.
Spencer’s portrayal of Peggy Woolley captivated audiences, making her a household name in Britain. The immense popularity of The Archers in its early years often led to Spencer being mobbed by adoring fans at public events. In a 2012 interview with the BBC, she recounted a particularly intense instance:
“I can remember on one occasion being flown down to Cornwall in a rather ancient Dakota that had been very loosely adapted to civilian use. When we got there I found that it was a very large gathering of Women’s Institutes. Such was the popularity of the programme that I was literally mobbed. Crowds came in and the organisers started shouting ‘Don’t come any closer! Do you want to kill her?’ It was quite frightening.”
Defining Moments as Peggy Woolley
Throughout her tenure on The Archers, Spencer’s character Peggy Woolley experienced many defining moments that showcased the depth and range of her acting abilities. In the 1960s, Peggy took over as the landlord of The Bull pub, navigating the challenges of running a business while inadvertently providing a venue for a riot by local youngsters, resulting in a charge for breaching the peace.
Perhaps one of Spencer’s most poignant storylines involved her character’s husband Jack Woolley succumbing to Alzheimer’s disease. In a heart-wrenching parallel to her personal life, Spencer recorded these episodes after the passing of her own husband Roger, who had suffered from the same condition and was cared for by the actress herself. Her raw, authentic performance during this storyline earned her widespread acclaim and solidified her status as a acting tour de force.
A Graceful Retirement and Enduring Legacy
June Spencer’s dedication to The Archers never wavered, even as she entered her second century of life. In her later years, producers accommodated the actress by building a custom studio in her Surrey home, allowing her to continue recording episodes without the need to travel to the show’s Birmingham studios. This arrangement enabled Spencer to remain an integral part of the program until her retirement in August 2022 at the age of 103.
Spencer’s contributions to the arts and entertainment were recognized with both an OBE and CBE, as well as being awarded the Freedom of the City of London. Her legacy as a pioneering figure in British radio will endure, serving as an inspiration to aspiring actors and entertainers for generations to come.
As fans around the world mourn the loss of June Spencer, her family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support. In a statement, they paid tribute to the staff at Liberham Lodge, who provided loving care for the actress in her final two years. The entertainment industry has lost a true icon, but June Spencer’s spirit will live on through her unforgettable performances and the countless lives she touched during her remarkable 105 years.
