Maddy Anholt dies aged 35

Thursday 14th September 2023, 12:46pm

Comedian Maddy Anholt has died, following a battle with "a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer"
Her family say: "In her short life, Maddy accomplished so much. She was a marathon-runner, author, speaker, actor and ambassador for Women's Aid"
A GoFundMe page has been setup to provide for Maddy's one-year-old daughter

Comedian Maddy Anholt has died aged 35, having been diagnosed with a "rare and aggressive form of brain cancer" last year.

Anholt performed comedy live, on radio, television and online. Her Edinburgh Fringe shows included Maddy's Many Mouths in 2013, Diary of a Dating Addict in 2015 and 2017's Herselves.

Meanwhile, as an actor she appeared in sitcoms such as Sunny D and Jerk, Radio 4's Sketchtopia, and The Emily Atack Show. In 2017 she made Radio 4 sitcom No Smoke.

Her first book, about unhealthy romantic relationships, How To Leave Your Psychopath, was published early in 2022 and received critical acclaim and attention across the globe. Her first novel, a thriller, is expected to be published next year.

Anholt was also prolific as an online comedy creator, with sketches released including Valentine's Day Scam and, during lockdown, P.E. with Maddy. In 2020 she co-wrote and starred in Kelly, a short film about a woman taking care of her parents' dog.

Her family have launched a GoFundMe page. It says: "It is with profound sorrow that we announce the death of Maddy Anholt, our beloved daughter, sister, twin, friend, wife and mother, who left this world on Wednesday 13th September, aged 35.

"You may know that shortly after the birth of her incredible daughter Opal last year, Maddy was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer. She handled the ensuing surgery and treatment with astonishing grace and courage, accompanied every step of the way by her family and devoted husband, Ben. She spent her final weeks at her parents' home, Sunflower House, bathed in love and calm, and with the sounds of nature all around.

"In her short life, Maddy accomplished so much. She was a marathon-runner, author, speaker, actor and ambassador for Women's Aid. Her debut book was published in 2022 and her first fiction will be published soon. As an actor, she appeared in sitcoms for the BBC, ITV and Channel 4, while as a speaker she led numerous masterclasses, including for the Guardian.

"We are overwhelmed with gratitude to the many friends who have upheld us with their love and prayers during this difficult time, as well as the countless nurses, doctors and the NHS as a whole, who treated her with unfailing dignity and compassion. In particular we would like to thank the magnificent team at Seaton Hospice at Home, who are the embodiment of empathy, professionalism and love.

"We ask you not to send flowers but if you feel moved to make a small donation, this fundraiser has been set up to provide for Maddy's one-year-old daughter, Opal.

"Alternatively, you might consider a contribution to Maddy's favourite charity, Women's Aid. Maddy was a powerful advocate for women's rights and on publication of her debut book, she was invited to become an Ambassador for Women's Aid, which she carried out with characteristic energy and humour: www.womensaid.org.uk/give

"Wherever you are, please join us at 6pm BST on Saturday 16th September, to light a candle. Pray, meditate and hold our precious Maddy in your hearts as she returns to the stars."

Maddy Anholt - How To Leave Your Psychopath

By Maddy Anholt

"Are you forever finding yourself in the stranglehold of controlling companions? Well, fear not, because once you've finished reading this book, you'll be able to wave ta-ta to unhappy and unhealthy relationships for good. Consider me the Psycho Sprucer, Bad Boy Buster, the Hot Mess Assessor - ready to leave your love life sparkling."

How To Leave Your Psychopath is a candid account of the complex, subtle nature of coercive control and abusive relationships from comedian Maddy Anholt, who - until her eyes were opened - had spent her entire dating life trapped in them.

Relatable and accessible, the book covers all the common techniques these toxic twerps use to exert control, including gaslighting, bread-crumbing and negging. This book is the ultimate handbook to help you see and respond to red flags, recognise controlling traits, and learn to give any prospective date a score on Maddy's unique 'Psychometer', from super-empath to psychopath. Vitally, by interweaving psychological insight and autobiographical anecdotes, Maddy shows you the road to self-discovery, leading you on the path to safer dating and a healthier, more joyful life.

Funny, judgement-free and full of brilliant first-hand advice, this empowering guide will help anyone ditch their controlling partner to find freedom and happiness.

First published: Thursday 3rd February 2022

Hardback

Paperback

eBook

Audiobook