**Liam Neeson Leads Tributes to Barbara Taylor Bradford at London Memorial**
Celebrated author Barbara Taylor Bradford was remembered by family, friends and notable admirers during a moving memorial service at St Bride’s Church on Fleet Street, central London. The ceremony, which took place on Thursday, drew a distinguished crowd from literary and entertainment circles, with heartfelt tributes led by acclaimed actor Liam Neeson.
Neeson, who starred as Blackie O’Neill in the 1984 television adaptation of Bradford’s iconic novel *A Woman of Substance*, could not attend in person, but his words were delivered to the congregation via a poignant message. In the note, Neeson reflected warmly on his experience working with Bradford and described her as “brilliant, elegant and unstoppable.” He credited her vision and commitment to storytelling for the adaptation’s enduring impact, emphasising his gratitude at having helped bring her characters to life.
Bradford, who passed away in November last year at the age of 91 after a short illness, was commemorated not only for her literary achievements, but also for her remarkable personal qualities. According to initial family statements, the best-selling novelist was “surrounded by loved ones” at the time of her passing. The legacy she leaves behind is substantial—her works have sold over 91 million copies worldwide, translated into more than 40 languages and published in 90 countries.
Among the mourners were actors, authors and figures from public life, including human rights lawyer Cherie Blair. In her speech, Blair painted a vivid picture of her friendship with Bradford, recalling their first meeting in New York more than two decades ago. Blair told attendees how their shared Northern heritage helped them bond and highlighted Bradford’s influence on generations of women, not least through her encouragement and practical advice in Blair’s own charitable initiatives.
Blair reminisced about attending the Women of Substance Awards at the Dorchester Hotel with Bradford, describing her as “wise, fun, endlessly inspiring—and always impeccably dressed.” Blair reflected that Bradford’s steadfast advocacy for women was defining, adding, “Barbara seemed ageless. We will deeply miss her warmth, wisdom and friendship.”
The service opened with the theme music from *A Woman of Substance*, setting a reflective mood which was further deepened by an address from actress Jenny Seagrove, who played the young Emma Harte in the original television mini-series. Attendees were reminded of Bradford’s cultural influence, particularly through the adaptations of her novels for the small screen.
In a testament to Bradford’s narrative enduring power, it was recently confirmed that the story of Emma Harte will return to television. Award-winning actress Brenda Blethyn is set to star as the protagonist in a new Channel 4 version, continuing the legacy of the original rags-to-riches tale that follows a Yorkshire servant’s rise to the top of a business empire.
Bradford’s reputation as the “grand dame of blockbusters” was well-deserved, remarks from various speakers suggested. Besides *A Woman of Substance*, other notable adaptations include *Act of Will* and *To Be The Best*, attracting major stars such as Elizabeth Hurley, Victoria Tennant, Lindsay Wagner, and Sir Anthony Hopkins.
The memorial brought together a community united in their admiration for Barbara Taylor Bradford—a woman whose talent and spirit touched so many lives, both through her prolific writing and her personal example. As Liam Neeson stated, it was Bradford’s unique blend of vision and dedication that made her stand out, inspiring those who were fortunate enough to know her work as well as those who knew her personally.
The event closed with a sense of celebration and remembrance, as mourners reflected on the long-lasting influence of a writer who will remain a “woman of substance” in the hearts of her readers and peers for years to come.