Pamela Salem, best known for her roles in EastEnders, Doctor Who, and the James Bond film Never Say Never Again, has died at the age of 80. Tributes poured in following the announcement, with many remembering her long and varied career across stage, television, film, and audio drama.

Born in India in 1944, Salem studied at the University of Heidelberg before training at the Central School of Drama. She began her career in repertory theatre in Chesterfield and York and went on to perform in numerous stage productions, especially works by Shakespeare, Chekhov, and Pinter. On screen, she became widely recognized for playing Miss Moneypenny opposite Sean Connery in Never Say Never Again. She also worked extensively with Big Finish, known for its audio dramas.

Salem died at her home in Surfside, Florida, in the morning. Her Big Finish producer, David Richardson, shared heartfelt words: “Pamela Salem was lovely, and we all loved her.” He added, “Whenever she had a recording with Big Finish, she’d fly in from Miami by herself, with no fuss or drama.” He remembered how “She would show up at the studio with the biggest hugs, the nicest smiles, and often gifts,” calling her “a very kind person who was always interested in everyone.” He also said, “She talked with joy about her home on Miami Beach, waking up to warmth and waves.”

On EastEnders, Salem played Joanne Francis between 1988 and 1989, appearing in 37 episodes. Her character arrived in Albert Square as part of “The Firm,” sent to manage a wine bar that secretly operated as a gambling den. Though initially at odds with Dirty Den Watts, the two eventually formed a strong working partnership and friendship.