But a few days ago I only just learnt of the death of Sandy Ratcliff who for four years played to perfection the role of harassed co-owner of the Walford Cafe Sue Osman. Sue was one of my favourite characters, not only because of how neatly drawn the character was but also because she was stunningly beautiful. As the BBC failed to pay tribute to her death I feel it is only fitting to write a review on what I regard as her best performance in the show.
This episode is notable for being the show's first controversial storyline. Sue and Ali awaken one morning to find their baby son Hassan lying motionless in his cot with no sign of life. Panicking, the two quickly whisk his lifeless body over to the house of male nurse Andy O'Brien ( the late Ross Davidson ), who calls for an ambulance.
Ali openly grieves the loss of his son meanwhile Sue conceals her grief and ends withdrawing into a morose, despondent state. She also begins to unfairly blame herself for her son's death, despite the post mortem results from the hospital revealing that Hassan died from cot death. The residents of Albert Square are quick to extend their sympathies however Sue is in far too much of a withdrawn state of mind to be able to notice.
The episode initially drew complaints from viewers and press alike however the furore soon calmed down once they realised how well the delicate matter was handled. I am a father of two ( my most recent addition being born five months ago ) and the thought of cot death was, and still is, always in the back of my mind. Ratcliff is outstanding to say the least. You want to hug her, you want to cry for her. Nedjet Salih also gives his most moving performance here. The pre-credits scene in which they hold hands whilst 'Julia's Theme' plays is bound to bring a twang to the heartstrings.
Ratcliff died aged 70 from an accidental morphine overdose. A pity her acting career dwindled following her exit from the show in 1989. She deserved better. Rest in peace and fly high Sandy darling.
This episode is notable for being the show's first controversial storyline. Sue and Ali awaken one morning to find their baby son Hassan lying motionless in his cot with no sign of life. Panicking, the two quickly whisk his lifeless body over to the house of male nurse Andy O'Brien ( the late Ross Davidson ), who calls for an ambulance.
Ali openly grieves the loss of his son meanwhile Sue conceals her grief and ends withdrawing into a morose, despondent state. She also begins to unfairly blame herself for her son's death, despite the post mortem results from the hospital revealing that Hassan died from cot death. The residents of Albert Square are quick to extend their sympathies however Sue is in far too much of a withdrawn state of mind to be able to notice.
The episode initially drew complaints from viewers and press alike however the furore soon calmed down once they realised how well the delicate matter was handled. I am a father of two ( my most recent addition being born five months ago ) and the thought of cot death was, and still is, always in the back of my mind. Ratcliff is outstanding to say the least. You want to hug her, you want to cry for her. Nedjet Salih also gives his most moving performance here. The pre-credits scene in which they hold hands whilst 'Julia's Theme' plays is bound to bring a twang to the heartstrings.
Ratcliff died aged 70 from an accidental morphine overdose. A pity her acting career dwindled following her exit from the show in 1989. She deserved better. Rest in peace and fly high Sandy darling.
