'Love Actually' Actress Who Inspired 'Narnia' Character Dies

She lit up the stage, inspired a literary legend, and stole scenes even in her final role — now, at 98, the fearless force behind "Narnia's" Lucy has taken her last curtain call.

She was the spirited child who inspired C. S. Lewis's Lucy in "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" a trailblazing actress, and the beloved matriarch of a famous British family.

Now, Jill Freud — the "Love Actually" star and theatre icon — has passed away at the age of 98, leaving behind a legacy as magical as the fantasy world she once helped shape.

A Life That Inspired Fiction — And Touched Hundreds More

Jill Freud, a renowned actress and theatre director, died peacefully on Monday morning, 24 November 2025, surrounded by her large and loving family. Her daughter, broadcaster Emma Freud, shared the heartbreaking news on social media with an emotional tribute.

"My beautiful 98 year old mum has taken her final bow," she wrote. "After a loving evening — where we knew she was on her way — surrounded by children, grandchildren and pizza, she told us all to [expletive] off so she could go to sleep. And then she never woke up."

A War Child Who Became a Literary Legend

As a young girl, Jill was evacuated to Oxford during World War II. She lived with none other than C. S. Lewis for three years — and the famed author would later model the character Lucy Pevensie on her in his beloved 1950 novel "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe."

But Jill didn't just stay in the pages of fiction. She went on to build a formidable career in theatre, both on and off the stage.

'Love Actually' and a Legacy of Laughter and Loyalty

For over 30 years, Jill ran two influential theatre companies in Suffolk, employing hundreds of actors and becoming a fiercely devoted advocate for performers' rights and regional theatre.

She was adored for her shepherd's pie, her care, and her unapologetic spirit. She made her final on-screen appearance as the Downing Street housekeeper in the 2003 romantic comedy "Love Actually."

Her daughter revealed that Jill, ever the creature of habit, had the same lunch every day: a glass of red wine and a packet of crisps. And even during the Covid-19 lockdown, aged 93, Jill kept up her tap dancing — joining daily classes with three generations of Freud women.

'Lucky Old Heaven…'

"She was 98, mother of 5, grandmother of 17, great grandmother of 7 — she was feisty, outrageous, kind, loving and mischievous," Emma wrote. "Lucky old heaven getting such a dazzling newcomer."

Jill's final words? "I love you."