Doctor Who star Jill Curzon dies aged 87

Doctor Who actress Jill Curzon, who starred in spin-off film Daleks' Invasion Earth 2150 AD, has died at the age of 87.

The actress was best known for her role as Louise, the niece of the time traveller played by Peter Cushing, in the 1966 spin-off.

Curzon's close friend, Pete Sims, confirmed to the Press Association that she peacefully died at her home in Spain last month.

Sims, who assisted the actress in writing her 2023 memoir, said: "She was a kind, generous person who loved life; she had a zest for life.

"She was just a joy to be around and she loved recounting old stories about what happened in the 60s and 70s and the people she used to mix with, people like Robert Wagner and all these big stars when she lived in America.

"It was great just to hear her stories. That's why the book that she wrote was a labour of love. I think it took her about 12 years to write that book, because she wanted to make sure it was spot on and it was right."

As well as her role in the Doctor Who spin-off, which was a sequel to 1965 film Dr. Who and the Daleks, Curzon was known for various TV appearances in the 1960s, including The Champions, Adam Adamant Lives!, The Saint, Hugh and I, and Disneyland.

She also appeared in films including Dr. Syn, Alias the Scarecrow, and Smokescreen.

Curzon previously spoke to Doctor Who Magazine about her role in Daleks' Invasion Earth 2150 AD, saying: “I’m lucky to have been a part of it. We never knew it would last all these years. Television has kept the show going, but still people are interested to see the films.”

She added: “I remember every scene. And I enjoyed every minute of it."

Curzon is survived by her daughter Michelle King and grandson Taj.