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Legendary Actress Jill Freud, Inspiration Behind Narnia’s Lucy, Passes at 98

Source: ‘Love Actually’ Actor Who Inspired ‘Narnia’ Character Dies at 98 (2025-11-25)

Jill Freud, a beloved actress and the real-life muse behind the iconic character Lucy in C.S. Lewis’s *The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe*, has died at the age of 98. Her daughter Emma Freud shared heartfelt tributes on social media, recalling her mother’s warmth, humor, and unwavering kindness. Jill Freud’s life was marked by remarkable contributions to both the arts and her community. She married Clement Freud, grandson of Sigmund Freud, in 1950, blending a legacy of intellectual and artistic influence. Her early years included a poignant evacuation to Oxford during World War II, where she worked as a housekeeper at The Kilns, Lewis’s residence, forging a friendship that inspired the beloved literary character Lucy. Beyond her acting career, Jill Freud was a passionate advocate for regional theater, founding two repertory theater companies that nurtured hundreds of actors and championed actor’s rights. Her influence extended into her family, including her son Matthew Freud, a prominent entrepreneur. Recent developments in her legacy include the ongoing expansion of her family’s influence, with her descendants actively involved in arts, media, and philanthropy. Her death marks the end of an era, but her legacy endures through her artistic contributions, her inspiration to C.S. Lewis, and her lifelong dedication to nurturing talent and kindness. As the world remembers her, new insights into her life reveal her role in fostering community resilience during wartime, her pioneering efforts in regional theater, and her influence on contemporary arts education. Jill Freud’s story exemplifies how one person’s kindness and creativity can leave an indelible mark across generations, inspiring future artists and storytellers worldwide.

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