Stephanie Cole, a well-known British actress, has passed away at the age of 84. Her agent confirmed the news on Friday, stating she had died on the morning of the same day. She had been living with Alzheimer's disease for several years, a condition that affects memory and cognitive function. John Grant, acting on behalf of her family, shared that she had been bravely managing the illness for some time. Cole was best known for her role as Dr. Beatrice (Bea) Mason in the 1980s BBC wartime drama Tenko, a series that followed the lives of British women imprisoned in a Japanese internment camp during World War II. She also appeared in the popular ITV medical drama Doc Martin, where she played the aunt of the show's main character, played by Martin Clunes. Her career spanned several decades, with roles in television, film, theatre, and radio. She was recognized for her performances in shows such as A Bit of a Do, Waiting for God, Keeping Mum, and Still Open All Hours, a comedy series that was revived in the 2010s. In addition to her television roles, Cole was known for her dedication to charitable causes. In 2005, she was honored with an OBE (Order of the British Empire) for her services to drama, the elderly, and mental health charities. Her family described her as an "extraordinary talent" who brought joy and inspiration to millions through her work. Cole’s last major television role was in the BBC comedy The Cleaner, where she appeared alongside actor Greg Davis in 2021. Her contributions to British television and her impact on audiences across generations will be remembered fondly. She leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances and a deep commitment to the arts and community service.