The literary world and close associates will come together today to honour the remarkable life and enduring legacy of Dame Jilly Cooper, the celebrated author whose racy novels captivated readers for decades. A memorial service is scheduled to take place at Southwark Cathedral in central London, where friends, family members, and admirers will pay their respects to the beloved writer who passed away unexpectedly last October at the age of eighty-eight.
A Life Celebrated in Central London
Dame Jilly Cooper died following injuries sustained from a fall, leaving behind a vast and influential body of work that resonated with millions of readers across the globe. Her unexpected passing sent shockwaves through literary circles and among her devoted fanbase. Today's service at the historic Southwark Cathedral provides an opportunity for collective reflection on her prolific career and personal warmth.
The Bonkbuster Phenomenon
Cooper became synonymous with the 'bonkbuster' genre through her immensely popular Rutshire Chronicles series. Novels such as Riders, Rivals, and Polo explored themes of adultery, social intrigue, and the complexities of upper-class British society with both humour and sharp observation. These works achieved bestseller status and established her as a distinctive voice in contemporary fiction.
The enduring appeal of her writing was recently highlighted by the acclaimed Disney+ adaptation of Rivals, which brought the picturesque Cotswolds setting to life with a stellar cast including David Tennant, Alex Hassell, Emily Atack, and Danny Dyer. This adaptation introduced her work to new generations and reaffirmed its cultural significance.
Royal Connections and Literary Inspiration
Among Cooper's most iconic creations was the fictional seducer Rupert Campbell-Black, a showjumper who features prominently throughout The Rutshire Chronicles. This character is famously said to be partly inspired by the Queen's ex-husband, Andrew Parker Bowles, adding an extra layer of intrigue to her already compelling narratives.
Camilla, the Queen Consort, was a long-time admirer of Cooper's work and previously hailed the author as a "wonderfully witty and compassionate friend" and a writing "legend." This royal endorsement underscored Cooper's unique position within both literary and social circles.
A Prolific and Enduring Career
Beyond her famous novels, Cooper's creative output extended into television and other media. Several of her works were adapted for the screen, including an ITV series of The Man Who Made Husbands Jealous and a 1990s adaptation of Riders. She even penned the 1970s sitcom It's Awfully Bad For Your Eyes, which featured Dame Joanna Lumley among its cast.
Remarkably, Cooper maintained her dedication to writing throughout her life, publishing Tackle! in 2023. She famously composed this final novel on her trusty manual typewriter named Monica, demonstrating her commitment to traditional methods amidst a digital age.
Recognition and Personal Tributes
Cooper received significant recognition for her contributions to literature and charitable work. She was made a CBE in 2018 and received her damehood in 2024, an honour she memorably described as "orgasmic" when presented by the King at Windsor Castle. These accolades reflected both her literary achievements and her broader cultural impact.
Following her death, Cooper's children, Felix and Emily, released a heartfelt statement expressing their profound loss. "Mum was the shining light in all of our lives," they said. "Her love for all of her family and friends knew no bounds. Her unexpected death has come as a complete shock. We are so proud of everything she achieved in her life and can't begin to imagine life without her infectious smile and laughter all around us."
The Queen also paid tribute, describing Cooper as a "legend" and reiterating her status as a "wonderfully witty and compassionate friend to me and so many." These personal reflections highlight the deep affection Cooper inspired in both her private circle and public admirers.
Today's memorial service at Southwark Cathedral serves as a fitting tribute to an author whose work continues to entertain and engage readers worldwide, ensuring that Dame Jilly Cooper's literary legacy will endure for generations to come.
