'Doctor Who' Star Elisabeth Sladen dies at 63

Elisabeth Sladen, who starred in the classic BCC series 'Doctor Who,' passed away Monday at the age of 63 after battling cancer, E! Online reports.

Sladen played investigative journalist Sarah Jane Smith on the series on and off throughout its 30-year run.

After appearing in several plays and in other TV programs, the Liverpool, England-born actress landed the role of Sarah Jane in 1973 -- a part that would essentially define her career. Though she left the show after her third season in 1976, Sladen returned every once in a while over the following decades to reprise Sarah Jane's character.

Sladen was also offered her own spin-off, 'The Sarah Jane Adventures,' which premiered in February 2007 and lasted four seasons with a fifth in the works.

Russel T. Davies, the man behind the 2005 'Doctor Who' series reboot and 'Adventure' series told the BBC he'll miss his dear friend.

"We had a glorious time," he said. "It's just so sad. It was a joy to know the woman and an honor to have worked with her. Seriously, I loved her."

Noel Clark, who co-starred with Sladen in the 'Doctor Who' series reboot, tweeted his goodbye to Sladen.

"#SARAHJANESMITHLIVES because Elisabeth Sladen made her Great. -Liz, you were awesome and will be missed," he wrote.

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