Beloved BBC actress and comedian Hylda Baker passed away without any money despite her long career and successful role on the popular ITV sitcom Nearest and Dearest. Hylda started performing at a young age and gained fame with appearances on BBC’s Good Old Days in 1955, leading to her own TV series, Be Soon, in 1957, and later The Best of Friends in 1963.

She was known as one of Britain’s most successful female comedians during a time dominated by males but is best remembered for her role as Nellie Pledge in Nearest and Dearest from 1968 to 1973. Despite her on-screen success in films like Saturday Night and Sunday Morning and Oliver!, Hylda had financial struggles throughout her life.

Married to Ben Pearson in 1929, their relationship faced challenges after Hylda experienced health issues. A tragic accident in 1961, where she was hit by a car, further added to her hardships. Subsequent incidents, including losing money to her chauffeur in 1971, compounded her financial woes.

In her later years, Hylda faced health issues, including cognitive decline and a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, leading her to reside in a retirement home. She eventually passed away in 1986 due to bronchial pneumonia. Despite her fame, Hylda spent her final days in poverty and reportedly had a lonely and forgotten existence, with a sparse attendance at her funeral.

Her journey, marked by professional success and personal challenges, serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of fame and fortune in the entertainment industry.