Born:
February 01, 1948
in
Liverpool
Best Known For:
Doctor Who.
Early-life:
Born February 1, 1948, in Liverpool. She was an only child, but despite her family having no showbusiness connections, she became interested in performing at an early age, and began ballet lessons at five. She continued training, eventually appearing in a Royal Ballet production, but her disappointment at failing to land leading roles prompted her to turn to acting. She spent two years at drama school, before returning to Liverpool to join the city's repertory company.
Career:
Sladen travelled the country in various productions before settling in Manchester for three years. Her TV debut came in a 1970 Coronation Street episode. She then moved to London and had brief parts in numerous shows. Her big break came in 1973 when she was cast as the Time Lord's assistant, journalist Sarah Jane Smith in Doctor Who. She stayed with the programme for three years. She took part in various audio adventures and TV spin-off K-9 and Company. She returned to the series in 1983 for the 20th anniversary special The Five Doctors, and for a 2006 episode. A second spin-off, The Sarah Jane Adventures, established itself as a CBBC favourite. She died on April 19, 2011, at the age of 65.
Quote:
'I've been very fortunate. I really did leave Sarah Jane behind. I never, ever intended or tried for this to happen.'
Trivia:
Married to actor Brian Miller for many years. They had a daughter, Sadie.