Jean Boht dead at 91: Bread actress who played Nellie Boswell dies following dementia battle weeks after husband’s death

LEGENDARY actress Jean Boht has tragically died at the age of 91 following a dementia battle - weeks after her husband's death.

The actress became a household name playing Nellie 'Ma' Boswell in hit 80s sitcom Bread from 1986 to 1991.

The show drew in 21million viewers with its depiction of Nellie and her kids after their dad Freddie walks out on them.

In a statement, her family revealed that Boht tragically died after battling vascular dementia.

Her death comes just over a month since the passing of her husband, the American composer Carl Davis.

Boht's family said: "It is with overwhelming sadness that we must announce that Jean Boht passed away yesterday, Tuesday September 12.

"Jean had been battling vascular dementia and Alzheimer's disease with the indefatigable spirit for which she was both beloved and renowned.

"She was a resident at Denville Hall, the home for members of the theatrical profession."

In 2021 Boht told the Liverpool Echo that she was too nervous to watch Bread while it was still running.

She said: "I never watched it at the time, it’s too horrendous for actors to see themselves on screen.

"So I had no idea what it looked like.

"But now when I catch it I am just astounded at how good it was and how very funny.

"I can understand why the public liked it so much.

"But then there was such a lot of lovely shows and characters around then."

Boht's first big role was in two episodes of Some Mothers Do 'Ave Em in 1978.

The star also appeared in Last Of The Summer Wine, Brighton Belles, Doctors, Grange Hill, Juliet Bravo and Boys From The Blackstuff.

She was born in Bebington and was a pupil at Wirral Grammar School for Girls.

She and Davis had two daughters, Hannah and Jessie, after they married in 1970.

The couple lived for many years in Windsor, Berkshire.

Dementia UK's Paul Edwards said: "We’re sorry to hear that Jean Boht has died having lived with Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia for several years, and send our condolences to her family.

"By discussing Jean’s experiences publicly, her family will help raise awareness for dementia and Alzheimer’s, encouraging them to seek the support they need for this condition.

"We are grateful for their honesty and hope they are receiving the support they need at this difficult time.

"We urge families affected by dementia to reach out to our specialist Helpline.

"Staffed by dementia specialist Admiral Nurses, our Helpline offers support and guidance on all stages of dementia, including grieving for a loved one."

Anyone affected by dementia can contact the Helpline by calling 0800 888 6678 or emailing helpline@dementiauk.org.