Cleo Sylvestre, a pioneering actress who broke barriers as the first black actress to play leading roles at the National Theatre and on British TV, has passed away at the age of 79. Her agent confirmed the news, stating, “Much-loved and admired by her peers, she will be remembered as a trailblazer and a true friend. She will be sorely missed by so many.”
Sylvestre’s daughter, Zoe Palmer, paid tribute to her on X (formerly Twitter), writing, “Our beloved, inspirational mum @CleoSylvestre crossed over this morning. With thanks to the teams @NHSHomerton and #therlh who cared for her so brilliantly over the past three weeks. Rest in power mum, see you on the dancefloor.”
Throughout her remarkable career, Cleo Sylvestre left a lasting legacy, appearing in iconic TV series such as Grange Hill and the revival of All Creatures Great and Small. She also made history as the first black woman to take on a leading role in a National Theatre production, starring in Peter Nichols’ 1969 satire The National Health. Sylvestre was also a significant presence on the UK soap opera Crossroads in the 1960s.
Her passing has drawn heartfelt tributes from many, including her agency, Fulcrum Talent, which expressed, “She will be sorely missed by so many.” Playwright Bonnie Greer also honored Sylvestre, writing, “The actor #CleoSylvestreMBE has crossed over. She was one of the reasons that—from my vantage point in NYC—that I thought this country has the best anglophone theatre…and the best place to be a #BlackWoman in it.”
Beyond acting, Sylvestre ventured into music, releasing To Know Him is to Love Him in 1964 with backing vocals provided by The Rolling Stones. Her contributions to both the arts and representation for black women in British media remain significant.
Born in Camden, north London, in April 1945, Cleo Sylvestre overcame a challenging upbringing to make her West End debut in Simon Gray’s Wise Child at Wyndham’s Theatre in 1967. Her groundbreaking role at the National Theatre in 1969 cemented her as a true trailblazer, and she went on to inspire generations of artists. Sylvestre’s influence and radiant spirit will be greatly missed.