Cleo Sylvestre, a pioneering British actress and the first Black woman to play a leading role at the National Theatre, has died at 79. Known for her groundbreaking role in the soap opera Crossroads, she also appeared in notable TV series including Grange Hill, Doctors, and The Bill. Sylvestre's career began with her West End debut in 1967 and was marked by collaborations with director Ken Loach. Besides acting, she dabbled in music, releasing 'To Know Him is to Love Him' with The Rolling Stones as her backing singers. Tributes from her peers and family highlight her significant impact on the arts and her role in breaking racial barriers. Sylvestre was honored with an MBE in 2023 for her contributions to drama and charity.