Barbara Taylor Bradford, a celebrated author known as Yorkshire’s ‘grand dame of blockbusters’, has died at 91.
- The Leeds-born Bradford started her career as a typist before becoming a renowned novelist.
- Her debut novel, A Woman of Substance, sold around 30 million copies worldwide.
- Bradford authored 40 novels in total, selling over 90 million copies globally.
- She died peacefully in New York, surrounded by loved ones, following a short illness.
Barbara Taylor Bradford, the notable novelist hailed for her blockbuster storytelling, has passed away at the age of 91. Known affectionately as the ‘grand dame of blockbusters’, Bradford’s journey from a humble typist at the Yorkshire Evening Post to a celebrated author is inspiring. Her career began in journalism, culminating in her becoming the first women’s editor at the newspaper.
Bradford’s literary career was marked by the enormous success of her debut novel, A Woman of Substance, which sold approximately 30 million copies worldwide. The book’s narrative, tracing the ascent of Emma Harte from a servant to the head of a business empire, resonated with a global audience and set the tone for Bradford’s future works.
Over her lifetime, Bradford penned 40 novels, with her books reaching over 90 million copies in sales globally. Her ability to capture the extraordinary achievements of ordinary women became a hallmark of her writing, inspiring readers around the world.
In the 1960s, Bradford moved to New York after marrying American film producer Robert Bradford in London in 1963. The couple shared a long and loving marriage until Robert’s death in 2019. Her family reports that she passed away peacefully at her home in New York, surrounded by her loved ones.
The news of Bradford’s passing has struck a chord with the literary and creative communities, particularly in Yorkshire and Northern England. Her works have left a lasting impact, as evidenced by the outpouring of tributes on social media. Many remember her as not only a literary icon but as an epitome of glamour and resilience.”RIP Barbara Taylor Bradford, the original woman of substance. Loved reading this as a 15-year-old gay boy in a small northern town. She taught me the importance of dreaming big,” noted one admirer on Twitter.
Following her passing, Bradford will be buried alongside her husband at Westchester Hills Cemetery in New York. Her legacy as a storyteller who championed the journeys of resilient women will continue to inspire future generations of writers and readers alike.
Barbara Taylor Bradford’s life and work remain a testament to the power of storytelling and the visionary spirit.
