**Barbara Ferris, Beloved Actor of Screen and Stage, Dies Aged 85**
Barbara Ferris, the English actor fondly remembered for her roles in “Coronation Street” and the iconic crime drama “The Krays”, has passed away at the age of 85. Her death was confirmed on 23 May 2025, marking the end of a remarkable life spent between film sets, television studios, and theatrical stages.
Ferris’s journey into stardom began in London, where she was born the youngest of two children to Dorothy and Roy Ferris. Early on, the performing arts beckoned, and she refined her craft at the prestigious Italia Conti stage school. To support her family, she was no stranger to hard work, taking on pantomimes and commercials while honing her skills.
Her first television breakthrough arrived in 1961 with a brief but notable role on the enduring British soap “Coronation Street”, where she portrayed Nona Willis, a barmaid. Despite the opportunity, Ferris found the distinctive Northern accent challenging to master. After just 10 episodes, she made the difficult decision to leave the series, later remarking that understanding the dialect had simply proved too great a hurdle.
However, Ferris’s departure from “Coronation Street” proved only a stepping stone to wider acclaim. In 1965, she starred alongside Dave Clark in “Catch Us If You Can”, playing Dinah, the spirited love interest who escapes with the film’s protagonist. The performance won her admirers and cemented her place in the annals of 1960s British cinema.
Her film career reached another high in 1990 with “The Krays”, directed by Peter Medak. Ferris captivated audiences in the role of Mrs Lawson, the film’s matriarchal figure, drawing on her years of experience to portray a nuanced and powerful character. This would ultimately become her final screen appearance, as she gently stepped back from the demands of acting in order to focus on her family.
Offstage, Ferris’s life was as international as it was industrious. Following her marriage in 1960 to film producer John Quested, she prioritised family life, raising three children – Nicholas, Christopher, and Catherine. The couple’s work took them around the globe, with homes in London, Zurich, and Ireland, giving Ferris rich experiences outside the spotlight.
Beyond her own achievements, Ferris was part of an extraordinary family. Her sister, Liz Ferris, made her own mark in British sporting history, claiming a bronze medal in diving at the 1960 Rome Olympics. The siblings’ successes in diverse fields have drawn praise from fans and commentators alike.
Since news of her death emerged, tributes from admirers and colleagues have poured in, with many recalling Ferris’s gentle presence and distinguished on-screen grace. One fan reflected, “Absolutely gutted to hear about Barbara Ferris. She had such a quiet grace on screen — Catch Us If You Can was a core memory from my childhood. Rest easy, Dinah.” Others spoke warmly of her kindness and professionalism, noting her generous spirit and infectious laughter on set.
Throughout her career, Ferris became known not only for her performances but for her poise, humility, and ability to inspire those around her. Her contributions spanned decades, and her legacy in the British arts community remains indelible.
Barbara Ferris is survived by her husband, John Quested, their three children, and a legion of admirers. Her influence on British theatre and film will not be forgotten, and she leaves behind a body of work that continues to resonate with audiences old and new.