“I have lost a friend, an ally, a confidante and a mentor,” she concluded. “But I know she will live forever in the words she put on the page and on the screen.”
Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who revealed in 2023 that he was a great fan of Cooper’s books, took to social media with his own statement, writing: “Sad to hear of the passing of Dame Jilly Cooper, a storyteller whose wit and love or character brought joy to millions. My thoughts are with her family and fellow readers.”
The stars of Rivals, on which Cooper worked as an executive producer, have also offered their condolences to the author’s family, with Emily Atack, who will reprise her role as Sarah Stratton in the upcoming second season, writing a particularly heartfelt message on Instagram.
“Oh Jilly, I can’t believe I’m writing this. Almost 3 years ago you gave me Sarah Stratton, and my life changed forever. I’ll never forget the first time we met. Your warmth and kindness soared through me with that first hug, and then every hug since,” read the moving statement.
“To be taken into your world was the hugest honour and a once in a life time privilege. I cannot begin to explain how much we will miss you. Thank you for letting us into Jilly World, there really is no place like it. Sending all my love to Jilly’s wonderful family. Praying that you all feel somewhat comforted by knowing and seeing just how adored she was. What a woman, what a legacy. We love you Dame Jilly.”
Originally published in Tatler.
