Su Pollard reveals final phone call before co-star's tragic death and why her marriage really ended

Su Pollard, the veteran British actress best known for her role as Peggy Ollerenshaw in the 1980s sitcom Hi-de-Hi!, revealed the final phone call she made to her late co-star Ruth Madoc before her death and shared insights into the end of her marriage. The revelation comes amid ongoing tributes to Madoc, who passed away on December 9, 2022, at the age of 79 following complications from a fall. Pollard described the emotional moment just days before Madoc’s surgery, when she called her to offer support. “The day before she had the operation, I rang her and just said, ‘good luck, babe. Hope it goes well and let me know how you get on,’” she recalled. The call proved to be their last conversation, as Madoc succumbed to her injuries shortly afterward. Pollard expressed deep sorrow, noting the profound bond they shared during their time on the show, which aired from 1980 to 1988 and reached millions of viewers at its peak. Madoc, who portrayed Gladys, the camp’s yellowcoat, was a close collaborator and friend to Pollard. Their relationship extended beyond professional boundaries, offering a sense of family and mutual support. Pollard reflected on the unique camaraderie they developed, saying, “We worked together as a really good team.” She highlighted their lack of rivalry, emphasizing that neither felt overshadowed by the other. “There was no envy between us,” she said. Pollard’s career spans decades, marked by notable roles in television, theatre, and musical performances. Her 1986 hit single “Starting Together” reached number two on the UK charts, while her work in You Rang, M’Lord and West End shows further cemented her status as a versatile performer. She has also appeared in numerous pantomimes, describing them as “pure, unadulterated fun.” She enjoys the freedom and energy of these productions, often drawing laughter from audiences with her signature catchphrase, “Hi-de-Hi!” Among her most cherished roles was Miss Hannigan, the villainous orphanage matron in Annie. Pollard took on the character for over a decade, performing in lengthy touring engagements. She described the experience as deeply personal, stating, “She became a part of me.” Her portrayal was distinctive, featuring minimal makeup and a striking appearance that emphasized the character’s rough edges. Despite her extensive career, Pollard remains connected to Hi-de-Hi! and the legacy of the show. She recently announced her participation in Sleeping Beauty at the Crewe Lyceum Theatre, where she will portray a “good fairy in bovva boots.” Her memoir, Su Pollard: Fully Charged, is set to release on August 13, offering fans a glimpse into her life and career. Pollard’s anecdotes include memorable encounters with celebrities. She recounted meeting Freddie Mercury at the Copacabana Club in the mid-1980s, where the rock icon requested a performance of the show’s iconic catchphrase. Similarly, she shared a humorous moment with Paul McCartney at the Royal Variety Performance, where the Beatle unexpectedly greeted her with “Hi-de-Hi!” and asked for an autograph. In addition to her professional achievements, Pollard has also had the honor of interacting with royalty. She once tap-danced with Princess Diana, an experience she described as unforgettable. These moments underscore the rich tapestry of her life and career, blending entertainment, friendship, and celebrity.