Belonging actress is found dead

A young actress who starred in the BBC Wales drama series Belonging has been found hanged, police have confirmed.

The body of Stephanie Parker, 22, who played Stacey Weaver in the programme, was found on open ground near Pontypridd early on Saturday morning.

The final episode of the long-running series was broadcast last Thursday.

Parker, who had been with the show since the age of 15, also appeared in Casualty and in Radio 4 dramas. She was described as "immensely talented".

South Wales Police said Parker's body was found by a passer-by at around 0600 BST on Saturday.

Her agent Mark Jermin said: "Our thoughts are with the family and it is really sad. She was a great talent and we are really shocked."


Clare Hudson, BBC Wales' head of English language programmes, said: "Everyone at BBC Wales - especially all those who worked on Belonging - is extremely saddened at the news of Stephanie's tragic death.

"Stephanie was an immensely talented actor who, as Stacey, played a central role role in Belonging since she was 15 as well as appearing in other BBC productions such as Casualty.

"Stephanie also worked with BBC Wales radio drama department on productions for Radio Four.

"Stephanie's talent played a major part in making Belonging the success it was and I'm sure that the programme's fans will be shocked by this untimely news.

"Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this very difficult time."


THE BBC

How sad
She had a nice life, curious how this has been taken?

And what is it with hangings in south Wales?

Is this suicide or murder?

When I read "hanged" you think of suicide, but on open ground?

....just seems a tad strange

I still don't get this trend for hanging yourself in south Wales though Was it because the show was coming to an end? Did no one notice she might be a little distressed about it?