Actress. She is best known for her role of Sarah Jane Smith in the popular British TV series “Doctor Who”. Born in Liverpool, she took dance lessons at the age of five and performed in a production with the Royal Ballet. Following grammar school, she attended drama school and joined the Liverpool Playhouse as an assistant manager. This led to her attaining roles as a performer and her eventual debut on British television in the series “ITV Playhouse” (1968). Sladen’s first steady work came in the series “Coronation Street” with the part of Anita Reynolds followed by guest star roles in the series “Z Cars” and “Special Branch”, among others. The popularity of Sladen’s character in “Doctor Who”, led to her own series “The Sarah Jane Adventures” (2007 to 2010). She died from cancer. (bio by: C.S.)