Entertainment
“She told us all to ‘f*** off’ and went to sleep…” Jill Freud, the real-life Lucy from Narnia, dies at 98
The British actress who inspired one of literature’s most beloved characters leaves behind a legacy filled with warmth, humor, and quiet influence.
The world of literature and theater is mourning the loss of Jill Freud, a British actress and theater producer whose life helped shape one of the most iconic characters in children’s literature. Jill, who inspired Lucy Pevensie in C.S. Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia, has died at the age of 98.
Her passing was confirmed by her daughter Emma Curtis, a broadcaster and wife of filmmaker Richard Curtis, known for films like Love Actually and Notting Hill. In a heartfelt tribute shared with family and friends, Emma wrote:
“My beautiful 98 year old mum has taken her final bow… surrounded by children, grandchildren and pizza, she told us all to f*** off so she could go to sleep. Her final words were ‘I love you.’”
It was a farewell as honest, humorous, and full of character as the woman herself.
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From wartime London to Narnia
Born June Beatrice Flewett on April 22, 1927, Jill’s early life was shaped by the Blitz, the German bombing campaign against London during World War II. She was evacuated as a teenager, eventually moving into the Oxford home of C.S. Lewis and his companion Jane Moore, where she worked as a housekeeper at just 16.
This unlikely arrangement would change her life—and literary history.
In a 2014 interview with The Hollywood Reporter, she recalled Lewis’ kindness:
“He would let me buy any book I wanted. He never made me feel small… He was kind, generous, good humored, helpful.”
She admitted she had what she called a “schoolgirl crush,” but admired him deeply as a mentor and friend.
Becoming Lucy Pevensie
Lewis later revealed in letters that Jill’s personality inspired Lucy Pevensie, the youngest of the four siblings in his Chronicles of Narnia series. In The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Lucy becomes the first to discover the magical world of Narnia through a wardrobe—an entrance that millions of readers and filmgoers remember vividly.
Actress Georgie Henley portrayed Lucy in the 2005 Disney adaptation, bringing to screen the qualities Lewis had admired in Jill: innocence, courage, and unwavering kindness.
Lewis once wrote to Jill’s mother:
“I have never really met anything like her unselfishness and patience and kindness and shall feel deeply in her debt as long as I live.”
A life in theatre
Though many remember her connection to Narnia, Jill also built a respected career in acting and theater production. She later married the actor and director Sir Clement Freud, becoming part of one of Britain’s most notable creative families.

Her contribution to regional theatre, especially in Suffolk, earned her admiration among performers and audiences alike. Colleagues described her as someone who championed young talent and believed deeply in community arts.
A farewell filled with love and humor
Her family shared that Jill spent her final evening surrounded by loved ones, a scene that could easily have belonged to one of Lewis’ warmest writings: laughter, food, affection, and a final mischievous quip.
Her daughter’s announcement has resonated widely online, with fans of Narnia, theatre communities, and literary historians paying tribute to the woman whose spirit helped give life to one of literature’s most cherished heroines.
A legacy beyond fiction
Jill Freud’s story serves as a reminder that behind great art often stand quiet, real people who inspire it. Her kindness influenced one of the most enduring characters in children’s literature, touching generations who grew up believing in wardrobes that open into other worlds.
Her passing marks the end of a remarkable life — but Lucy Pevensie, and the girl who helped create her, will continue to live in the imaginations of millions.
Entertainment
‘Elle’ Season 2: Maitreyi Ramakrishnan Promises Her Most Challenging Role Yet
The rising star teases fresh creative opportunities and a performance that steps well beyond her comfort zone.
After winning audiences over with her breakout performance in Never Have I Ever, actress Maitreyi Ramakrishnan is preparing for a new challenge—one she says is unlike anything she has tackled before.
The Canadian actress recently offered an intriguing glimpse into her role in Elle Season 2, revealing that the character will allow her to explore completely new creative territory.
Without revealing specific plot details, Ramakrishnan described the experience as something she had never done in her acting career. Her comments have immediately sparked curiosity among fans eager to see how the actress continues to expand beyond the role that first made her an international star.
“It’s not something I’ve done before,” she hinted, suggesting that audiences should expect a performance that differs significantly from her previous work.
Since leading Never Have I Ever, Ramakrishnan has steadily built a reputation for choosing projects that challenge expectations rather than repeating familiar character types. Her willingness to experiment has made her one of Hollywood’s most promising young performers.
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Although details surrounding Elle Season 2 remain largely under wraps, the actress’s latest remarks indicate that viewers can expect both fresh storytelling and new dimensions to her screen presence.
The original Elle series has attracted attention for its unique characters and evolving narrative, and the addition of Ramakrishnan has only increased anticipation for the upcoming season. Industry observers believe the role could mark another significant milestone in the actress’s rapidly growing career.

Ramakrishnan has frequently spoken about the importance of taking creative risks and embracing roles that allow her to grow as a performer. That philosophy appears to have guided her latest career move, with the actress deliberately stepping outside her comfort zone.
Her transition from teen comedy to more varied and layered projects reflects a broader trend among young actors seeking longevity in Hollywood. Instead of becoming defined by a single breakout role, Ramakrishnan continues to diversify her portfolio with carefully selected performances.
While fans may have to wait for more details about her character, the early tease has already succeeded in generating excitement. With expectations building around Elle Season 2, audiences will be watching closely to see what new side of the actress emerges on screen.
As her career continues to evolve, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan’s latest project serves as another reminder that some of the most memorable performances come from actors willing to embrace the unfamiliar.
Entertainment
Vincent Mason Opens Up About New Song “What You Want” and Morgan Wallen’s Influence
The country singer reveals the inspiration behind his latest single and how Morgan Wallen helped shape his musical style.
Country music’s next generation is finding its voice, and Vincent Mason is making sure his sound comes from a place of honesty. The rising singer-songwriter has opened up about his latest single “What You Want” and the lessons he has picked up while watching the journey of one of country music’s biggest names, Morgan Wallen.
With his newest release, Mason is focusing on creating music that feels personal rather than simply chasing trends. The artist explained that he wants every song he puts out to represent a real part of his story.
“I want every release to feel like it’s coming straight from me,” Mason said while discussing his approach to new music.
The single “What You Want” reflects Mason’s growing confidence as a songwriter. The track highlights his ability to blend traditional country emotions with a modern sound, creating music that connects with listeners who appreciate genuine storytelling.
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Mason’s rise comes at a time when country music continues to expand globally, with young artists bringing fresh perspectives while still respecting the roots of the genre. Watching artists like Morgan Wallen build a massive audience has helped Mason understand the importance of consistency, connection, and staying true to an artist’s identity.

Wallen’s success has been built around relatable lyrics and a strong connection with fans, something Mason believes is essential for long-term growth in the music industry.
Rather than trying to copy the biggest names in country music, Mason appears focused on developing his own lane. His goal is to create songs that listeners can connect with emotionally and remember beyond just the moment of release.
The singer-songwriter’s journey represents the changing landscape of country music, where authenticity has become one of the most valuable qualities for emerging artists. As more new voices enter the scene, Mason hopes his music will stand out because of its honesty and personal meaning.
With “What You Want” marking another important step in his career, Vincent Mason is proving that a strong story and genuine emotion can still be the foundation of a successful country music journey.
Fans can expect more new music from Mason as he continues building his identity and sharing songs that reflect his experiences, inspirations, and growth as an artist.
Entertainment
‘Onwards and Sideways’ Unveils First Images of Laura Linney and Rhys Ifans’ Powerful New Drama
The emotional film follows two lives transformed by unexpected diagnoses and is set to make its world premiere at TIFF.
A moving new drama is set to make its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), and its first official images are already drawing attention for their emotional depth.
Titled Onwards and Sideways, the film stars Laura Linney and Rhys Ifans as two individuals whose lives are transformed after receiving diagnoses of Parkinson’s disease. Rather than focusing solely on grief, the story promises to balance heartfelt moments with humor, resilience and hope.
Helming the project is acclaimed filmmaker John Madden, best known for directing the Academy Award-winning classic Shakespeare in Love. The screenplay comes from Paul Mayhew-Archer, a celebrated British writer whose own experiences with Parkinson’s have brought authenticity to the script.
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According to the filmmakers, Onwards and Sideways is designed to explore how life can continue with meaning even after a difficult diagnosis. Instead of presenting a conventional medical drama, the film examines friendship, resilience, vulnerability and the unexpected connections that emerge during life’s most challenging moments.
Joining Linney and Ifans is an accomplished supporting cast featuring Monica Dolan and Rory Kinnear, both known for delivering nuanced performances across film, television and theatre.

The newly released images offer an early glimpse into the film’s intimate storytelling, capturing quiet moments between characters as they navigate uncertainty with compassion and humor. While the subject matter is undeniably serious, the visuals suggest a story that celebrates humanity rather than focusing exclusively on illness.
For Laura Linney, the project marks another emotionally rich role in a career filled with acclaimed performances in films and television. Rhys Ifans, meanwhile, continues to showcase his remarkable versatility by stepping into a character facing profound personal change.
With John Madden behind the camera, expectations are naturally high. His previous work has demonstrated a remarkable ability to combine emotional storytelling with memorable performances, making Onwards and Sideways one of the more anticipated premieres at this year’s festival.
As conversations surrounding Parkinson’s disease continue to grow globally, the film arrives with the potential to spark meaningful dialogue while reminding audiences that compassion, laughter and human connection remain powerful forces in the face of adversity.
Whether it emerges as an awards-season contender remains to be seen, but Onwards and Sideways is already positioning itself as one of the Toronto International Film Festival’s most emotionally compelling premieres.
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