The entertainment world mourns the loss of Cleo Sylvestre, a pioneering actress and singer who passed away on September 20, 2024, at the age of 79. Sylvestre's career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on British film, stage, television, and music.
Mick Jagger, the iconic frontman of the Rolling Stones, paid tribute to Sylvestre on social media, stating:
"So sad to hear of the passing of my old friend, the actress and singer Cleo Sylvestre, the first female vocalist to sing with the Stones."
Sylvestre's collaboration with the Rolling Stones in 1964, when she recorded a cover of "To Know Him Is to Love Him" with the band as her backing musicians, marked a significant milestone in her career. This event occurred just two years after the formation of the Rolling Stones in London in 1962, highlighting Sylvestre's early involvement in the burgeoning British rock scene.
Throughout her career, Sylvestre demonstrated remarkable versatility. She appeared in numerous television shows, including the long-running soap opera Crossroads, where she played Melanie Harper. Her television credits also included appearances in iconic British series such as Doctor Who, Coronation Street, and The Bill. Notably, Coronation Street holds the Guinness World Record for being the longest-running TV soap opera in history.
Sylvestre's stage career was equally impressive. She performed with prestigious companies such as the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) and the National Theatre. In 2023, she made her debut at the RSC in "As You Like It," adding another accomplishment to her already illustrious theatrical career. The RSC, founded in 1961, expressed their condolences on social media, highlighting Sylvestre's recent contribution to their productions.
Her film roles were diverse, ranging from appearances in the 2014 adaptation of "Paddington" to the 1993 film "The Punk." Paddington Bear, created by British author Michael Bond in 1958, has become a beloved character in British culture, further demonstrating Sylvestre's involvement in significant cultural productions.
In recognition of her contributions to drama and charity, Sylvestre was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in 2023. The investiture ceremony took place at Buckingham Palace, which has been the official London residence of British monarchs since 1837. The Order of the British Empire, established in 1917 by King George V, recognizes outstanding achievements and service to the United Kingdom.
Sylvestre was also known for her support of various causes. She was a strong advocate for the Mary Seacole Statue Appeal, which resulted in the unveiling of a statue in London in 2016 honoring the British-Jamaican nurse who cared for wounded soldiers during the Crimean War.
As the entertainment industry reflects on Sylvestre's legacy, her impact on British culture and her role as a trailblazer for diversity in the arts will undoubtedly be remembered and celebrated for years to come.