Stage and screen actor Susan Fitzgerald has died following a long battle with cancer. Susan was a versatile and talented actor who performed across theatre, television and film. She was married to the artistic director of the Gate theatre, Michael Colgan, who survives her along with her children Sarah, Sophie and Richard. She will be greatly missed by her colleagues in Equity and the artistic community. Her funeral took place in Dublin on Wednesday 11th September.
Her Equity colleague, Laurence Foster, recalls working with Susan: “On behalf of Equity President, Padraig Murray, and the Executive Committee we wish to convey our personal tribute to our colleague, Susan Fitzgerald.
“In May 1974, the cast of TV’s The Riordans embarked on a long tour of the celebrated play, Peg o’ My Heart. I was cast as Sir Gerry and the young, snobbish daughter, was played by Susan Fitzgerald. She was Ethel personified: proud, ethereal, infuriating. The prolonged run exceeded 200 performances and, like Susan’s friendships, her acting was consistent and her talent formidable. “Susan kept her life private, but was so generous on stage and in the green room. She radiated charm and elegance in everything she did, and her many Gate Theatre performances were iconic. “In 2006 we shared an apartment in Charleston, South Carolina while touring with the Gate Theatre. Even Susan’s penchant for losing the car in multi-storey parks was endearing, but her social skills were abundant, never at a loss in the most exalted company and always looking after fellow actors.
“Her untimely exit has left a void in the theatre world and in our hearts, but her legacy will live forever. May God hold her in the palm of his hand.”
Laurence Foster is a member of the Equity Executive
