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For decades, All Creatures Great and Small has charmed audiences with its tales of life as a country vet, first on the BBC from 1978 to 1990, and more recently with Channel 5’s successful reboot beginning in 2020.
But while the series is known for its warmth and gentle storytelling, real life has brought moments of sadness for the actors who brought James Herriot’s world to life.
From the deaths of beloved stars to personal struggles faced away from the spotlight, here are some of the tragedies that have touched the cast of All Creatures Great and Small.
Steve Hodson
In February 2025, fans of both All Creatures Great and Small and Follyfoot were left heartbroken by the news that actor Steve Hodson had died at the age of 77.
Hodson, who appeared in the original BBC run of All Creatures Great and Small in 1980 as Trooper Raven, had been suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). His daughter confirmed the news on a Follyfoot fan page, with a touching tribute that read: “Steve passed away last night after a long battle with COPD. That’s one brighter star you’ll see in the heavens from now on. So sad.”
Born in Bradford in 1947, Hodson trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama before launching a career that combined television and stage work. His most famous role was as Steve Ross in Follyfoot, the much-loved 1970s series about young people working at a horse rescue centre. He became a household name and even released a single in 1973, Crystal Bay, penned by Bee Gee Maurice Gibb and Billy Lawrie.
(Image: Yorkshire Television)
Cleo Sylvestre
Another devastating loss came in September 2024, when Cleo Sylvestre died aged 79. She played Anne Chapman in the Channel 5 reboot, appearing from 2020 to 2023.
Her first appearance came in the season one Christmas special, with her character’s story partly inspired by her own family history. The show’s producers later paid tribute: “Cleo was a pioneer, a fine actor and a wonderful human being who was much loved by all who worked with her. She will be much missed.”
Sylvestre’s career had been groundbreaking. She was the first black woman to play a leading role at the National Theatre and earlier in her life became the first female vocalist to sing with The Rolling Stones. Her versatility as both an actress and singer made her a unique presence on stage and screen.
Sir Mick Jagger himself posted a photograph of her on Instagram, writing: “So sad to hear of the passing of my old friend, the actress and singer Cleo Sylvestre.” Fans of All Creatures also expressed their sorrow online, remembering her warmth and compassion in the role.
(Image: Getty)
Samuel West
For Samuel West, tragedy has touched both of his parents in different but equally painful ways. In November 2024, he lost his father, the acclaimed actor Timothy West, who died peacefully at the age of 90 after a career spanning stage, television, and film.
Known for his commanding presence and his marriage of more than six decades to fellow actress Prunella Scales, Timothy’s passing was marked by tributes from across the world of theatre and television, leaving Samuel and his family mourning the loss of a remarkable figure both professionally and personally.
At the same time, Samuel has faced the slow decline of his mother, best known to millions as Sybil Fawlty in Fawlty Towers. Prunella was diagnosed with dementia in 2014, and although she retired from acting in 2020, her illness has continued to affect her daily life and her family’s.
Samuel has spoken candidly about her condition, acknowledging both the challenges and the small moments of joy that still shine through.
(Image: Getty)
Alf Wight (the real James Herriot)
Behind the character of James Herriot was Alf Wight, the Yorkshire vet whose books inspired every adaptation of All Creatures Great and Small. While his fictionalised self enjoyed a long and fulfilling career, Wight himself suffered a devastating illness late in life.
In 1991, just two years after retiring, Wight was diagnosed with prostate cancer. He continued to write and contribute to veterinary life, but his condition worsened, and in 1995 he died at his home in Thirlby aged 78. His ashes were later scattered on Sutton Bank, overlooking the countryside he so often described in his work.
His son Jim, who inherited his veterinary practice, reflected: “People often ask me when my father actually retired from veterinary work. He never really did. He just did it because he loved it. It was a way of life, not just a job.”
Herriot’s passing was mourned by millions of readers and viewers who had grown up with his stories. His wife Joan’s health also declined after his death, and she passed away in 1999.
(Image: Getty)