Beloved author Barbara Taylor Bradford, renowned for her iconic novel “A Woman of Substance,” has passed away at the age of 91. The celebrated writer died peacefully in her home on Sunday, surrounded by her loved ones after a brief illness, a spokesperson confirmed. Throughout her illustrious career, Taylor Bradford penned a total of 40 novels, with her latest work, “The Wonder of It All,” released just last year. Her books have sold over 91 million copies worldwide, translated into more than 40 languages and published in 90 countries.
Born in Leeds in May 1933, Barbara Taylor Bradford started her career as a typist at the Yorkshire Evening Post before rising to become the paper’s first woman’s editor. Upon moving to London at the age of 20, she continued her journalistic pursuits in Fleet Street, working for publications such as Woman’s Own and the London Evening News. In 1961, she met her husband, American film producer Robert Bradford, whom she married in 1963. The couple spent 55 years together until his passing in 2019.
Taylor Bradford’s literary breakthrough came with the publication of “A Woman of Substance” in 1979, propelling her to instant fame. The novel chronicles the life of Emma Harte, from humble beginnings as a servant in Yorkshire to becoming a business tycoon despite facing numerous personal trials. The book’s success led to several more bestsellers and a TV adaptation in 1985 starring Liam Neeson and Jenny Seagrove.
Recognised for her contributions to literature, Taylor Bradford was honoured with an OBE in 2007. Charlie Redmayne, CEO of publisher HarperCollins, praised her as a remarkable storyteller and a proud Yorkshire native. Following a private funeral in New York, the author will be laid to rest alongside her husband at the Westchester Hills Cemetery.
Jenny Seagrove, who portrayed Emma Harte in the TV adaptation of “A Woman of Substance,” fondly remembered her friendship with Taylor Bradford, highlighting the author’s warmth, humility, and genuine nature. The legacy of Barbara Taylor Bradford lives on through her timeless stories that have captivated millions of readers worldwide and will continue to do so for years to come.
Barbara Taylor Bradford’s passing marks the end of an era in the literary world, as fans and colleagues mourn the loss of a true icon. Her words will forever resonate with readers, and her impact on the literary landscape is immeasurable. As we bid farewell to a talented storyteller, we celebrate the legacy she leaves behind and the inspiration she has provided to countless aspiring writers.