Renowned British-American novelist Barbara Taylor Bradford, famed for her debut bestseller “A Woman of Substance”, has passed away at the age of 91. She died peacefully at her home on Sunday after a short illness, her spokesperson confirmed.
Bradford’s literary career spanned decades, during which she published 40 novels and sold 91 million copies worldwide. She is celebrated for creating compelling rags-to-riches tales, often inspired by her Yorkshire roots.
Her debut novel, A Woman of Substance, released in 1979, became an instant success, spending 45 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list and selling over 30 million copies. It tells the story of Emma Harte, a servant who rises to become the head of a business empire. The novel was adapted into a double Emmy-nominated miniseries in 1985, starring Jenny Seagrove and Liam Neeson.
Seagrove remembered Bradford as a “dear friend” and a “powerhouse of glamour and warmth.” She said, “Success never diluted her warmth, humour, or her ability to relate to everyone, whether a cleaner or a princess. She never forgot she was just a girl from Yorkshire who worked hard and made good.”
Born in Leeds, England, in May 1933, Bradford began her career as a typist at The Yorkshire Evening Post at the age of 15, later transitioning to reporting. She moved to London at 20 and began writing fiction while working as a journalist. After several incomplete attempts at novels, she achieved global recognition with A Woman of Substance.
Bradford’s publisher, HarperCollins CEO Charlie Redmayne, praised her as “a natural storyteller” and described her impact on readers as “life-changing.” He added, “She was deeply proud of her Yorkshire roots and a huge part of our company for 45 years.”
Her achievements earned her numerous accolades, including an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) from Queen Elizabeth II in 2007 for her contributions to literature.
Bradford had resided in the United States since 1964 following her marriage to American film producer Robert Bradford, with whom she shared 55 years of marriage until his death in 2019. She will be laid to rest beside him at Westchester Hills Cemetery, New York.
Bradford’s most recent work, The Wonder of it All, was published in 2023, capping off a prolific and influential career that inspired generations of readers.
A private funeral service will be held in New York, her spokesperson stated.
Barbara Taylor Bradford leaves behind a legacy of storytelling that continues to resonate with millions worldwide.
