Soap star who played Zoe Tate for 16 years was diagnosed with stage four lung cancer in 2016

This article is more than 11 months old

This article is more than 11 months old

The Emmerdale actor Leah Bracknell has died aged 55, three years after being diagnosed with lung cancer. Bracknell, who played Zoe Tate in the ITV soap for 16 years until 2005, died last month, her manager said on Wednesday.

John Whiston, the managing director of continuing drama and head of ITV in the north of England, said: “Everyone on Emmerdale is very sad to hear of the death of Leah Bracknell. Leah was a hugely popular member of the Emmerdale cast for over 16 years.

“During that time, she featured in some of the show’s most high-profile and explosive plots and always delivered a pitch-perfect performance.

“Zoe Tate was one of soap’s first lesbian characters and Leah made sure the character was both exciting and credible. Leah herself was a very generous and caring colleague, much loved by cast and crew alike.”

Bracknell’s stage-four lung cancer diagnosis came to light in October 2016. Her husband, Jez Hughes, launched a fundraising page to help her access treatment overseas, due to a lack of options available on the NHS.

Fans helped Bracknell raise more than £50,000 to undergo treatment in Germany. She started taking new medication, but later revealed it had failed.

A statement from Bracknell’s manager on behalf of her family said: “They would like to thank all the public for their support and generosity, which contributed to the extension and quality of her life over the past three years.

“Leah continued to embrace life and faced her illness with positivity. Many aspects of her journey can be found on her blog.

“Leah was best known and much loved as Zoe Tate in Emmerdale. She also had roles in Judge John Deed, A Touch of Frost, The Royal Today and DCI Banks, to name just a few, as well as numerous appearances on stage and in pantomime.

“As well as acting, Leah was also an accomplished yoga teacher and shamanic healer. Leah had an energy and enthusiasm for life, a kind heart and much love to give to those around her. Her family have asked for privacy at this very sad time.”