BBC TV star dies aged 35 after cancer diagnosis following birth of her daughter

star and guest Maddy Anholt has died aged 35.

The Women’s Aid ambassador’s death was announced on Wednesday night, in a post written by her family on her GoFundMe.

Anholt had been diagnosed with a ‘rare and aggressive’ form of brain after the birth of her daughter Opal, just last year.

The post : ‘It is with profound sorrow that we announce the death of Maddy Anholt, our beloved daughter, sister, twin, friend, wife and mother, who left this world on Wednesday 13th September, aged 35.

‘You may know that shortly after the birth of her incredible daughter Opal last year, Maddy was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer.

‘She handled the ensuing surgery and treatment with astonishing grace and courage, accompanied every step of the way by her family and devoted husband, Ben.

‘She spent her final weeks at her parents’ home, Sunflower House, bathed in love and calm, and with the sounds of nature all around.’

The statement went on: ‘In her short life, Maddy accomplished so much. She was a marathon-runner, author, speaker, actor and Ambassador for Women’s Aid.

‘Her debut book was published in 2022 and her first fiction will be published soon.

‘As an actor, she appeared in sitcoms for the BBC, ITV and Channel 4, while as a speaker she led numerous masterclasses, including for the Guardian.

‘We are overwhelmed with gratitude to the many friends who have upheld us with their love and prayers during this difficult time, as well as the countless nurses, doctors and the NHS as a whole, who treated her with unfailing dignity and compassion.

‘In particular we would like to thank the magnificent team at Seaton Hospice at Home, who are the embodiment of empathy, professionalism and love.’

The family concluded: ‘We ask you not to send flowers but if you feel moved to make a small donation, this fundraiser has been set up to provide for Maddy’s one-year-old daughter, Opal.

‘Alternatively, you might consider a contribution to Maddy’s favourite charity, Women’s Aid. Maddy was a powerful advocate for women’s rights and on publication of her debut book, she was invited to become an Ambassador for Women’s Aid, which she carried out with characteristic energy and humour: www.womensaid.org.uk/give

‘Wherever you are, please join us at 6pm BST on Saturday 16th September, to light a candle. Pray, meditate and hold our precious Maddy in your hearts as she returns to the stars. With love, Cathy, Laurence, Claire, Tom and Ben.’

Anholt appeared on This Morning in 2020 alongside Phillip Schofield and Rochelle Humes.

She also starred in three episodes of The Emily Atack Show, and on two episodes of TV series Jerk.