Annabel Schofield, the 80s supermodel who later became a television star and film producer, has died at the age of 62 after being diagnosed with cancer.
Moreover, tributes have begun pouring in for the Welsh-born beauty who defined an era of glamour.
Her passing marks the end of a remarkable journey from international runways to Hollywood sets. However, those who knew her say her warmth mattered more than her fame.
The Annabel Schofield death has shocked fans who remember her as one of the most recognizable faces of the 1980s fashion scene. She fronted major campaigns for Yves Saint Laurent, Rimmel, and Revlon. In addition, her global breakthrough came with Bugle Boy Jeans, which cemented her supermodel status.
Schofield later crossed into acting. She made her debut on the hit US soap Dallas in 1988. She starred as Laurel Ellis opposite Larry Hagman’s iconic J. R. Ewing. Meanwhile, her presence on the long-running series expanded her audience beyond fashion.
Born in Llanelli, Wales, Schofield was introduced early to the film world through her father, British film executive John D. Schofield.
She also appeared in films such as Solar Crisis alongside Charlton Heston. Furthermore, she gradually moved behind the camera, building a respected career as a producer.
As a producer, she worked on projects including The Brothers Grimm, Doom, and City of Ember. In 2010, Bella Bene Productions was launched in Burbank. The company developed fashion campaigns, adverts, and music ventures.
During this time, a creative partnership was formed with Nick Egan, known for his work with Duran Duran and Oasis. Fashion, however, remained close to her heart. She later produced a 3D Guerlain campaign starring Angelina Jolie.
Melissa Richardson, former owner of London’s Take Two Agency, shared an emotional tribute.
“She was one of David Bailey’s favourites and appeared in countless shoots for Italian Vogue. She was the forerunner of Take Two without her, we could never have made it as we did.
“We loved her because she was funny and real and beautiful and down to earth. She never changed from the sweet little 17-year-old Welsh girl I first met.”
