Emmerdale’s inspirational first blind actress Kitty McGeever dies aged 44

Kitty McGeever, who played Emmerdale's Lizzie Lakely, has passed away following health complications

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by Jessica Anais Rach |
Published on

The talented actress was the first ever blind person to be cast in a British soap, playing the role of Lizzie from 2009 to 2013.

The part was a huge triumph for Kitty, who started losing her sight after her son was born prematurely and developed heart and lung complications in 2003.

The stress exacerbated the then-32-year-old's heart, kidney and diabetes problems, eventually taking her sight completely.

Sadly her son Feliz died shortly afterwards, aged just 15 months.

However Kitty was an inspiration to many, becoming the first blind person to appear on a British soap in 2009.

Kitty as Lizzie in 2011
Kitty as Lizzie in 2011

Today a spokesperson for Emmerdale confirmed Kitty's passing, explaining in a statement:

"It is with much sadness that Emmerdale confirms actress Kitty McGeever, who played the character of Lizzie Lakely, passed away last night, surrounded by her loving family.

"Kitty was a great talent and a true inspiration to all who worked with her.

"The cast and crew are devastated at her passing and she will be missed tremendously and remembered fondly by all of us."

The late star's fellow cast members took to Twitter to pay tribute to the actress, with Gemma Oaten writing:

"So sad to hear the news our dear Kitty McGeever has died. Never forget the scene's we used to have with her infectious laugh. Miss you xxx,".

Our thought's our with Kitty's family and friends during this sad time.

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