Liz Smith dies aged 95

OHMYGOSSIP — Liz Smith has died aged 95.
The actress – most known for her role as Nana in ‘The Royle Family’ – passed away on Christmas Eve (24.12.16), according to a statement released by her spokesperson on behalf of her family.
The statement read: “The BAFTA award-winning actress Liz Smith has died, on Christmas Eve, at the age of 95, her family has announced.”
No cause of death has yet been announced, but since her passing tributes from the showbiz world have flooded in, with Ralf Little – who played Antony Royle in the popular sitcom – leading the tributes.
Taking to Twitter, Ralf said it was “devastating” news, as Liz becomes the second ‘Royle Family’ cast member to pass away this year after Caroline Aherne – who created the show and starred as Denise Royle – died from lung cancer in July.
He wrote: “Devastating to lose two members of my second family in one awful year. RIP Liz Smith. Goodbye Nana. Xxx (sic)”
Richard E. Grant, who starred with Liz in the 1997 film ‘Keep the Aspidistra Flying’ – which was based on the George Orwell book of the same name – also paid his respects via Twitter.
He wrote: “Liz Smith-I loved working with you on the George Orwell film & privileged to have played & danced together R.I.P. X (sic)”
Meanwhile, ‘Coronation Street’ actor Andrew Whyment tweeted: “What a fantastic actress she was absolutely hilarious RIP lovely Liz x (sic)”
Anna Friel, who starred in ‘Brookside’ said: “I loved Liz Smith. What a great actress.”
In 2009, Liz announced her retirement from acting after suffering from a series of strokes. She had starred in television comedies such as ‘I Didn’t Know You Cared’ and ‘2Point4 Children’, as well as playing the role of Grandma Georgina in 2005’s ‘Charlie and The Chocolate Factory’ alongside Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter.

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