Actress and model Annabel Schofield has died at the age of 62 after a battle with brain cancer. She passed away on February 28, 2024, in Los Angeles, California. Schofield was widely recognized for her role as Laurel Ellis in the iconic television soap opera Dallas, which captivated audiences during the late 1980s.
Born in Wales, Schofield made a significant mark in the fashion industry before rising to fame on television. Her modelling career began in the vibrant 1980s, where she became a prominent figure in London’s street-inspired fashion scene. In a 2012 interview, she reflected on the influence of the era, noting the impact of movements such as the New Romantics and Punk culture. She said, “I honestly think London as far as cutting edge style… was created by Ray Petrie and all the resulting street styles.”
Throughout her modelling career, she was represented by London’s Take Two Agency, gracing the covers of numerous fashion magazines. Her work included campaigns for renowned brands such as Yves Saint Laurent, Rimmel, Revlon, and Boots No. 7. Schofield gained international recognition through a memorable television advertisement for Bugle Boy Jeans, where she famously asked, “Excuse me, are those Bugle Boy jeans you’re wearing?” while driving a black Ferrari through the desert.
Tributes and Career Highlights
Following the news of her passing, tributes poured in from fans and colleagues alike. Melissa Richardson, the former owner of Take Two Agency, shared her heartfelt remembrance, stating, “She was one of David Bailey’s favorites 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.” Richardson emphasized Schofield’s enduring charm, describing her as “funny and real and beautiful and down to earth.”
Schofield’s acting career extended beyond Dallas, with notable performances in productions such as Solar Crisis, Dragonard, and Eye of the Widow. She later transitioned into production roles for major films including The Brothers Grimm, Doom, and City of Ember.
Fans and admirers took to social media to express their sorrow over Schofield’s death. One fan remarked on X (formerly Twitter): “Rest in peace, Annabel Schofield. Fans of Dallas will remember Annabel as Laurel Ellis in 1988.”
Schofield’s legacy as a talented actress and a pioneering figure in the fashion industry will be remembered by many. Her contributions to both fields have left an indelible mark, showcasing her versatility and charm throughout her career.
