Ross Kemp: Five Days to Craft Dame Barbara Windsor’s Eulogy

Renowned actor Ross Kemp shares heartfelt journey in crafting Dame Barbara Windsor’s eulogy

Emotions ran high at the Henley Literary Festival this past weekend as actor and documentarian Ross Kemp shared the deeply personal and emotional journey he undertook to craft the eulogy for the late Dame Barbara Windsor.

The iconic British actress, best known for her portrayal of Peggy Mitchell in the BBC soap opera EastEnders, passed away at the age of 83 in 2020, leaving behind a legacy of charity work and entertainment.

Kemp, who famously played Grant Mitchell on EastEnders, the on-screen son of Dame Barbara's character, Peggy Mitchell, revealed that it took him five painstaking days to compose the tribute.

Speaking at the festival, the 59-year-old actor and documentarian admitted that the experience was "very tough" for him, as he reflected on his cherished memories and friendship with the beloved actress.

"One of the hardest things I've ever had to do was write her eulogy," Kemp revealed, visibly moved by the memory of the task. He recalled a poignant moment during the process when Dame Barbara's husband, Scott, offered his input on the title of the eulogy.

Kemp humorously recounted, "Scott came up and said, 'What are you going to call it?' I said, 'I haven't got a clue.' We joked about titles like 'Anytime Anyplace Anywhere' or 'Conversations With Kemp After Three Pints.'

But Scott had a different idea. He said, 'No, there's only one thing you can call it, isn't there?' And he suggested, 'Take Nothing For Granted.' I went, 'Oh yeah, okay mate.'"

The title, "Take Nothing For Granted," encapsulated not only Dame Barbara's indomitable spirit but also the poignant message that Kemp aimed to convey in his eulogy - the importance of appreciating life's fleeting moments.

Dame Barbara Windsor, a beloved figure in British entertainment, was made a dame in the 2016 New Year's Honours list in recognition of her outstanding contributions to charity and entertainment.

Her career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on both the stage and screen.

Ross Kemp's touching tribute at the Henley Literary Festival serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact Dame Barbara Windsor had on those who knew and admired her.

As the festival attendees listened to Kemp's heartfelt words, they were reminded once more of the cherished legacy left behind by the incomparable Dame Barbara.