Stella Tanner

Stella Tanner (1 January 1925 – 26 March 2012) was a renowned English actress known for her contributions to both radio and television. Born in London, Tanner honed her craft at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) before shifting her focus to music and performance alongside her sister, Frances Tanner. Together, they formed the Tanner Sisters, captivating audiences with their harmonious performances on British radio and television throughout the 1950s. Notable moments from this era include a memorable collaboration with Buddy Holly in March 1958 and their appearances on the popular radio show, Educating Archie, alongside the Hedley Ward Trio from 1950 to 1952.

After a successful decade as a duo, Tanner transitioned to television comedy, making her debut in 1960 on the show Sykes and A... with Eric Sykes. She garnered attention for her guest appearances in a variety of beloved sitcoms, including The Rag Trade (1963), Fawlty Towers (1979), and It Ain't Half Hot Mum (1981). Tanner’s versatility shone through in her role as the mother of Adam Faith's girlfriend in the ITV series Budgie from 1971 to 1972. In the later years of her career, she portrayed Luisa di Marco on EastEnders in 1998 and had a memorable stint on Coronation Street, further solidifying her legacy in British entertainment.