Gudrun Ure, Beloved "Super Gran" Star, Passes Away at 98
Star of 1980s Children's Show
Gudrun Ure, beloved for her role in the 1980s children's TV series "Super Gran," passed away at the age of 98. Her death was confirmed by her niece, Kate McNeill.
Iconic Role as Super Gran
Ure's portrayal of Super Gran, a granny who gains superpowers after being struck by a magic ray, won her legions of young fans. The ITV series ran from 1985 to 1987, and its popularity was bolstered by guest appearances from notable figures like George Best and Billy Connolly, who also sang the show's theme tune.
A Celebrated Career
Born on March 12, 1926, in Milton of Campsie, north of Glasgow, Ure was the eldest of three children. Her career spanned stage, radio, and television. She made a significant impact in a 1951 stage production of Shakespeare's "Othello," directed by and starring Orson Welles. She played Desdemona and later dubbed the voice of Suzanne Cloutier for the film version of the project.
Memorable Performances
Beyond "Super Gran," Ure's extensive career included roles in "Casualty," "Midsomer Murders," and as Lady Macbeth in a series of educational films for Encyclopaedia Britannica. Her distinctive voice left a lasting impression on audiences, as recalled by her niece who immediately recognized her voice in a "Casualty" episode.
Legacy and Personal Life
Ure lived most of her life in London. She was married to John Ramsay for over 40 years until his death in 2008, and she had a stepson named Gordon. Her niece remembers her as a "really kind" person who was proud of her work on "Super Gran" and excited about plans to reboot the show as a film.
Tributes from Colleagues
Scottish actor Joe McFadden, who worked with Ure on the 1996 BBC drama "The Crow Road," expressed his admiration for her. He fondly recalled her enthusiastic spirit during their time on set and noted his own childhood fondness for "Super Gran."
Gudrun Ure's legacy as a talented actress and her iconic role as Super Gran will be remembered fondly by her fans and colleagues alike. She passed away peacefully at her home in London.
