Tributes are pouring in for veteran Home and Away star Wendy Playfair, who died on Wednesday aged 99, just five months shy of her 100th birthday.
The beloved actress had a fifty year career in Australian film and television, appearing in many acclaimed productions including Home and Away, Prisoner and Packed to the Rafters.
Her death was confirmed in a social media statement on a Prisoner fan page.
‘The Playfair family have just advised me of the passing of the beautiful and incredibly talented Wendy Playfair, who has died peacefully at the age of 99,’ they began.
‘Wendy enjoyed a remarkable career that spanned many decades across Australian theatre, television and radio. She was a highly respected performer who contributed enormously to the Australian performing arts industry.
‘Many fans will fondly remember Wendy for her role as Minnie Donovan, the formidable Top Dog of Wentworth Detention Centre in the iconic Australian television series Prisoner.
‘Her portrayal of Minnie Donovan remains one of the memorable characters in the show’s history.
‘Beyond television, Wendy was also highly respected for her extensive work in radio drama, performing in many radio plays throughout her career and bringing countless characters to life through her voice and storytelling.’
The Sydney-born actress began her career in the ’60s and worked steadily for decades, until her retirement in 2013.
Other renowned roles include A Country Practice, All Saints, Spirited and Rake.
She also appeared in the 2009 Australian drama movie Accidents Happen, opposite US actress Geena Davis.
Her final role was a guest spot on Channel Seven’s Packed to the Rafters in 2013, alongside Rebecca Gibney and Michael Caton.
Heartbroken fans took to social media to pay tribute to Playfair.
‘What a great life! R.I.P. Wendy,’ one person wrote.
She was ALWAYS brilliant with fan mail. She adored her time in the show,’ a second added.
‘I loved her character so much. God bless her.’
‘Brilliant character, wonderful actress and a great top dog. RIP dear,’ another chimed in.
‘A wonderful long life and career. Loved Minnie in Prisoner. RIP Wendy,’ someone else wrote.
Playfair is survived by her family, including her daughter and Tony Award-winning theatre director grandson Kip Williams.
