Cleo Sylvestre passed away at the age of 79.
The pioneering actress became the first black woman to play a leading role at London’s National Theatre in 1969.
He died on Friday morning after spending three weeks in a London hospital.
In a statement sent to the BBC, her agent said: ‘Much loved and admired by her peers, she will be remembered as a pioneer and a true friend.
“She will be greatly missed by many people. We ask that you respect her family’s privacy at this difficult time.”
Cleo Sylvestre has died aged 79. The pioneering actress became the first black woman to play a leading role at London’s National Theatre in 1969.
He died on Friday morning after spending three weeks in a London hospital (photo from 2015)
Sharing the news with X, her daughter Zoe Palmer wrote: “Our beloved and inspiring mother passed away this morning.”
“Thank you to the @NHSHomerton and #therlh teams who have looked after her so well over the last three weeks. Rest in peace mum. See you on the dance floor.”
He was born in London on 19 April 1945 and studied at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatrical Arts.
In 1964, with the help of Rolling Stones manager and producer Andrew Loog Oldham, he released his first single, To Know Him Is to Love Him.
She made her West End debut in 1967 in Wise Child before landing the lead role in The National Health two years later.
In addition to her numerous stage roles, Cleo also starred in Doctor Who, The Bill and Grange Hill.
In December 2022, she was awarded an MBE for services to drama and charity in the 2023 New Year Honours.
The actress married Ian Palmer in 1977 and they had three children: writer and presenter Zoë, Lucy and Rupert.
