Comedian and actress Maddy Anholt, known for her work with ITV and BBC, tragically passed away following a battle with brain cancer.
Emily Atack has expressed her profound sadness following the death of comedian and actor Maddy Anholt, who tragically passed away at the age of 35 after being diagnosed with brain cancer. Anholt, a talented comedian and passionate campaigner against domestic abuse, was a well-known figure on British television, having appeared on shows such as ITV’s The Emily Atack Show, This Morning, and BBC Three’s Sunny D.
In an emotional tribute posted on Instagram, Atack, star of The Inbetweeners, wrote: “It’s hard to find the words. Maddy Anholt was one of the sweetest, FUNNIEST, gorgeous and most hard working women I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing and working with. Just utterly beautiful and so talented. She made me laugh so much. Sending every ounce of my love and support to her family. Such an unbearably tragic loss.”
Anholt, who had been diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer shortly after the birth of her daughter, Opal, last year, had undergone surgery and treatment with remarkable courage. Her family shared that she passed away peacefully at her parents’ home, surrounded by love and nature.
In addition to her work as a comedian, Anholt was an advocate for those affected by domestic abuse. Her book, How to Leave Your Psychopath, addressed issues of coercive control and abusive relationships. She had also been planning to release Red Flags, a follow-up book, in 2024. Anholt worked closely with Women’s Aid, where she helped raise awareness of unhealthy relationships, particularly among younger people.
Farah Nazeer, Chief Executive of Women’s Aid, praised Anholt’s dedication, calling her “a creative, caring and determined woman” who used her talents to support vital causes. “Maddy’s passion for raising awareness of abuse, particularly among younger people, will continue through our work in her memory,” Nazeer said.
Anholt’s passing has left a lasting impact on her friends, family, and the many communities she supported. Children’s author Giles Paley-Phillips also paid tribute, describing Anholt as a “wonderful, inspiring human being” and “cherished friend.”
The heartfelt tributes reflect the deep admiration and love felt for Anholt, whose legacy will live on through her contributions to both comedy and social causes.
