Irish actresses died in 1986

Here are 1 famous actresses from Republic of Ireland died in 1986:

Joan Henley

Joan Henley (September 2, 1904 Dublin-February 1, 1986 Sussex) was an Irish actor. She had one child, Julian Belfrage.

Joan Henley was a prominent figure in the British theater scene, with a career spanning over five decades. She began her acting career in Ireland, appearing in a number of Dublin's most prominent theaters. In the 1930s, she moved to London to pursue her acting career and quickly found success in the West End, performing in numerous productions over the years.

Henley was also an accomplished film actress, appearing in a number of British films in the 1940s, including "The Next of Kin" and "They Were Sisters". She continued to work in film and television into the 1970s, earning critical acclaim for her performances.

Henley was known for her dedication to the craft of acting and her distinctive voice, which she used to great effect in both her stage and film work. In addition to her acting career, she was a devoted mother and was known for her generosity and kindness to her friends and colleagues in the theater world.

After retiring from acting, Henley lived in Sussex with her son Julian Belfrage, who went on to become a highly successful talent agent. She died in Sussex in 1986 at the age of 81.

In her long and illustrious career, Joan Henley also played a significant role in the development of British radio plays. She was part of the BBC Repertory Company and became a regular presence on the radio, lending her voice to a number of popular radio dramas. During World War II, she was one of the few actors who continued to perform on the radio despite the threat of German bombing raids. Henley was also a founding member of the Actors' Equity Association, a British trade union representing actors, performers, and stage management professionals. Her contribution to the world of theatre was recognized in 1974 when she was awarded with the Order of the British Empire. Today, Joan Henley is remembered as one of the most versatile and iconic actors in the history of British theatre and cinema.

Throughout her long and successful career, Joan Henley worked alongside some of the biggest names in the British theater and film industries, earning a reputation as a consummate professional among her peers. Her dedication to her craft earned her numerous accolades, including a BAFTA Award for her role in the film "The Next of Kin".

In addition to her acting work, Henley was also a talented writer and playwright, penning a number of successful plays and adaptations throughout her career. She was also a passionate advocate for the arts, serving as a member of the Royal Society of Arts and as a trustee of the Arts Council of Great Britain.

Despite her many achievements, Joan Henley remained humble and never lost sight of the importance of her family and friendships. She maintained close relationships with many of her colleagues in the theater world, including her lifelong friend and fellow actor Laurence Olivier.

Today, Joan Henley's legacy lives on in the countless performances she gave and the countless lives she touched throughout her career. She remains an inspiration to aspiring actors and performers around the world.

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