Hilary Heath

Hilary Heath was a British actress and producer who is best known for her roles in “Witchfinder General,” “The Oblong Box,” and “Cry of the Banshee.” Born on March 6, 1945, in Liverpool, England, she later moved into production after a successful acting career.

Personal and Family Life

Hilary Heath, born Hilary Dwyer, was raised in a family with a strong academic background; her father was an orthopedic surgeon. In 1973, she married talent agent Duncan Heath, and they had two children together: Laura (born 1974) and Daniel (born 1980). After their divorce in 1989, she continued to support her family through her work in the entertainment industry.

Career

Heath began her acting career in the 1960s, making a name for herself in various horror films, particularly those with Vincent Price. In the mid-1970s, she shifted her focus from acting to producing, where she played a significant role in creating adaptations of classic literature. She also obtained a Master’s degree in Psychology from Oxford later in life and worked as an addiction counselor, showcasing her diverse talents beyond the film industry.

Death and Legacy

Hilary Heath passed away on April 3, 2020, at the age of 75 due to complications caused by COVID-19. Her legacy lives on through her memorable performances and contributions to film production, solidifying her place in British cinema history. She is remembered particularly for her impactful roles during the 1960s and her later career as a producer.

Filmography

TitleRelease DateCharacter
Witchfinder General1968-05-17Sara
The File of the Golden Goose1969-10-13Ann Marlowe
The Oblong Box1969-06-11Lady Elizabeth Markham
Wuthering Heights1970-06-09Isabella Linton
Two Gentlemen Sharing1969-09-17Ethne Burrows
The Comic1969-11-29Judy
The Body Stealers1969-03-21Julie Slade
Cry of the Banshee1970-07-22Maureen Whitman
The Blood Beast: The Films of Michael Reeves1999-12-19Herself
Callan1967-07-08
Van der Valk1972-09-13Nana Schneers
Hadleigh1969-09-16
Eurotika!1999-10-03Self
Space: 19991975-09-04Laura Adams
The Prisoner1967-09-29Number Seventy-Three