EastEnders has paid tribute to actress Anna Karen after she tragically died at the age of 85.
The actress played Aunt Sal – the sister of the late Barbara Windsor's Peggy Mitchell – on a recurring basis beginning in 1996 and until 2017, as well as two Carry On films and the sitcom On the Buses.
BBC reported that a fire broke out at a woman thought to be Karen's house in London and firefighters pronounced her dead upon their arrival at the scene. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
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An official statement from the BBC One soap issued to Digital Spy reads: "We are deeply saddened to hear that Anna Karen has passed away.
"Anna created a sharp, quick witted and extremely popular character in Aunt Sal that the audience will never forget, just as those who worked with her at EastEnders will never forget her warmth, kindness fun and good humour. Our love and thoughts are with Anna’s family and friends."
Other touching tributes also poured in from some of the show's former castmembers.
"I just heard the awful news about the wonderful Anna Karen," former Roxy Mitchell actress Rita Simons tweeted. "Horrific and awful and so so sad. She was one of the best. Sleep well lovely Anna. Sending all my love to her family and friends."
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Jake Wood, who played Max Branning, added: "So sad to hear of the passing of Anna Karen. Loved working with her, so funny and full of character RIP x."
Danniella Westbrook, who has played Sam Mitchell on-and-off over the years, also shared a tribute, tweeting: "I’m devastated at the lost off lovely Anna, my condolences to her family. May she Rest In Peace [sic]."
