Jane Whittenshaw, the actress best known for starring in EastEnders and Call the Midwife, passed away.

A statement from her agent said she died last weekend, with her husband, Hugh, her best friend and carers by her side. The cause of death has not been revealed.

Whittenshaw rose to fame as social worker Anita Banks at EastEnders in the late 1990s. She also appeared in crime drama The Bill, Silent Witness, Grange Hill, Green Wing and Endeavour.

She has also worked in theatre, film and radio throughout her career.

Whittenshaw performed on stage for the Royal Shakespeare Company and had roles in the films Invasion, Mrs Dalloway and Golden Years.

The actor was also a member of BBC Radio Drama Company and has recorded over 500 radio plays. His last role was in the All 4 2022 comedy series I Hate You.

In a statement, her agency, Stanton Davidson Associates, said: “It is with profound sadness that we must announce the passing of Jane Whittenshaw, a much loved and highly respected client of over 30 years.

“She slipped away peacefully last Saturday, with her husband, Hugh, her best friend, Rebecca, and caregivers by her side.

“In addition to being a valued client, Jane was a very dear, generous and fun friend to be around. She was an extremely talented actress and voice superstar, leaving an extraordinary legacy of over 500 radio plays. , thanks to multiple appearances on the BBC Radio Rep and numerous independent productions.

“She was a true professional, an absolute joy to work with and loved by all who did. We offer our deepest condolences to Hugh and the family.

In the BBC series Call the Midwife, Whittenshaw played Nurse Barrington, a character who appeared in the 2017 series.

She also appeared in the detective series Broadchurch, where she portrayed Linda.

Lorelei King, the actress, wrote on social media: “So sorry to hear of Jane Whittenshaw’s passing. She was wonderful to work with and so talented.