Jane Freeman was a talented actor who made a lasting impact on the world of theatre and television. Born in Brentford, near London, she developed an early interest in performing at school and went on to study at the City of Cardiff [now Royal Welsh] College of Music and Drama.
After graduating in 1955, Freeman joined the Osiris Repertory Theatre touring company and later became a member of the Arena Theatre in Sutton Coldfield. She began to attract attention for her performances, including a role in the inaugural production of the Welsh Theatre Company's production of Robert Bolt's A Man for All Seasons at the New Theatre, Cardiff in 1962.
Freeman's career spanned over five decades, during which she appeared in numerous regional rep, national tours, and pantomimes. She was a versatile actress who played a wide range of roles, from strong, northern matriarchs to sharp-tongued characters.
In addition to her work in theatre, Freeman also had a successful television career, appearing in a number of popular shows, including Last of the Summer Wine, Billy Liar, and Scrubbers. She made her television debut in 1964 and went on to appear in a number of Play for Today productions, including Peter Terson's The Fishing Party and Alan Bleasdale's Scully's New Year's Eve.
Freeman was married to Michael Simpson, the former artistic director of Birmingham Rep, from 1971 until his death in 2007. She died of lung cancer on March 9, 2017, at the age of 81.
Throughout her career, Freeman remained committed to the theatre and continued to appear in productions until her death. She will be remembered for her talents, her dedication to her craft, and her contributions to the world of theatre and television.
