Anneke Wills made her acting debut at the tender age of eleven in the 1954 film Child's Play, marking the beginning of her illustrious career in the entertainment industry. She subsequently enrolled in the prestigious Arts Educational drama school, where she spent approximately four years honing her craft, securing numerous roles in children's television and theatre productions.
Following her time at Arts Educational, Wills pursued further training at the renowned Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, although she did not complete the course. Nevertheless, her early experience and training served her well, as she went on to secure a string of television roles, including appearances in the popular series Armchair Theatre, The Saint, and The Avengers.
In 1962, Wills starred alongside notable actors Kenneth More, David Hemmings, Ray Brooks, and Angela Douglas in the film Some People, which was inspired by the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme. Her subsequent television work led to her becoming a household name, particularly in her iconic role as "Polly Wright" in the beloved science fiction series Doctor Who, which she played from 1963 to 1966.
Wills' success in Doctor Who was followed by another regular television role in the crime drama Strange Report, which starred Anthony Quayle and Kaz Garas. Although the show's cast turned down the opportunity to make a second series in America, Wills eventually gave up acting and relocated to Norfolk, where she opened a craft shop.
In 1977, Wills left England and spent time living in various locations, including Belgium, India, where she stayed in a religious retreat and returned to the stage in several Shakespeare productions, and the United States. She eventually settled in Canada, where she directed a production of the play Rashomon, although she primarily worked as an interior decorator.
In recent years, Wills has returned to the UK and settled in Devon, bringing an end to her nomadic lifestyle and allowing her to reconnect with her roots. Throughout her life, Wills has demonstrated a remarkable versatility and adaptability, both on and off the stage, and her contributions to the world of entertainment continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow performers alike.
