Thursday, 19 March 2009

Wendy Richard's husband: She never cried over cancer

Widower says EastEnders legend bravely faced her diagnosis

Natalie Cassidy with John Burns, the husband of Wendy Richard | Natalie Cassidy with John Burns, the husband of Wendy Richard in London | Now Magazine

Wendy Richard's former co-star Natalie Cassidy's moved in with John Burns

Wendy Richard’s husband John Burns has paid tribute to the late actress.

The EastEnders legend, who played Pauline Fowler, died at The Harley Street Clinic on 26 February after battling cancer.

John says Wendy, 65, didn't complain about her illness.

‘She never got upset or felt sorry for herself,’ he tells This Morning.

‘I think I only saw her cry three times during the 13 years we were together, and one of those was at Princess Diana's funeral.

‘She would be positive and talk about her will if the treatment wasn't successful.’

Before her death, Wendy filmed a documentary about chemotherapy.

‘I hope this documentary dispels the fear,’ says John. ‘It's a lot less stressful than what you imagine it to be... there are different degrees of reaction.’

Wendy married John, 45, in an intimate ceremony at the Chesterfield Hotel in Mayfair in October.

Wendy Richard: To Tell You The Truth airs on BBC One tonight at 8pm.

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