Alexandra Bastedo: The Glamorous Star of The Champions and Devoted Animal Advocate

When you think of the glamour of 1960s television, one name likely stands out: Alexandra Bastedo. Best known for her role as the fearless secret agent Sharron Macready in The Champions (1968-1969), Alexandra captured hearts with her beauty, brains, and superhuman skills. Yet, her story goes far beyond the screen. She was also a passionate animal welfare advocate, founding the Alexandra Bastedo Champions (ABC) Animal Sanctuary and dedicating much of her life to rescuing animals. From British TV darling to global icon, her career was as diverse as her passions. Let’s take a closer look at the remarkable life of this multi-talented actress and animal advocate.

Early Days: Growing Up in Seaside Sussex

Born on March 9, 1946, in Hove, East Sussex, Alexandra Lendon Bastedo came from a creative family. Her Canadian father, Gilbert, and her mother, Riana, who had French, Italian, and German heritage, instilled in her a love for the arts and culture. Raised in Brighton after her parents’ divorce, Alexandra was deeply influenced by her mother’s strength and creativity.

As a child, Alexandra’s love for animals was evident early on—dreaming of becoming a vet by the age of three. She also developed a passion for dancing at the age of five and later took up drama at local schools. Isn’t it fascinating how early passions shape a person’s path? At the age of 16, she was spotted by a talent scout, and her future in the acting world started to take shape.

First Steps in Acting: From TV Beginnings to Hollywood

Alexandra’s first big break came in 1963 when she starred in the Hollywood horror film 13 Frightened Girls! Despite the allure of studio offers, she turned many down to focus on her education, showing a remarkable level of discipline. Her career continued to rise in the UK, with guest spots on British TV shows like The Saint with Roger Moore and appearances in comedies with Morecambe and Wise.

Her multilingual abilities also helped her secure roles in international projects, and she appeared in the 1967 Casino Royale spoof. Alexandra was building a unique portfolio, marked by her elegance, charm, and quick wit—a toolkit that would serve her well as she progressed into more significant roles.

Breakthrough Fame: The Champions and Sharron Macready

The late 1960s brought Alexandra her most iconic role—Sharron Macready in The Champions (1968-1969), an ITC series that blended espionage, science fiction, and action. As one of three super-powered agents, Alexandra’s character was smart, tough, and independent. This role turned her into a household name, and fans in Spain affectionately dubbed her “La Bastedo.”

The show’s blend of high-energy adventure and science fiction proved to be a hit worldwide, and Alexandra became a true TV icon. This role marked the start of Alexandra’s global fame, propelling her career forward and making her a favorite of fans across Europe. Her portrayal of a strong, independent woman in a male-dominated genre was ahead of its time—how many women led such adventure-packed series back then?

Diverse Roles: From Horror to Stage Performances

Following the success of The Champions, Alexandra’s career continued to expand in different directions. She starred in British horror films such as The Ghoul (1975), and appeared in a wide range of television shows, including Absolutely Fabulous and EastEnders. She also became known for her appearances in blockbuster films like Batman Begins (2005), where she played a high-society figure.

Not limiting herself to screen roles, Alexandra also shone in the theater. She performed at the prestigious Chichester Festival Theatre, proving her versatility as an actress. Her ability to move seamlessly between different genres, from horror to comedy and stage performances, showed her impressive range and skill.

A Passion for Animals: Founding the ABC Sanctuary

While her career flourished in front of the camera, Alexandra’s heart was always with animals. She became a lifelong vegetarian and began rescuing animals, starting with a donkey in the 1980s. Eventually, her passion for animals led her to establish the Alexandra Bastedo Champions (ABC) Animal Sanctuary, located on her property in West Sussex.

The sanctuary was dedicated to providing a home for rescued animals, including horses, donkeys, pigs, and more. Volunteers helped care for the animals, and many were successfully rehomed, while others received lifelong care. Alexandra also authored books, including Beware Dobermanns, Donkeys, and Ducks, where she shared stories from her life as a rescuer. Her sanctuary not only provided a safe space for neglected animals but also became a lasting legacy of her love and compassion for creatures in need.

Later Years: Dedication to Welfare and Personal Challenges

In the 2000s, Alexandra gradually stepped back from acting, choosing instead to focus on her sanctuary and animal welfare advocacy. She served as the president of the local RSPCA until 2008, continuing her work for animal rights even after she became less active in the entertainment industry. She faced personal health challenges, including breast cancer, but remained resilient, showing the same determination she had in her acting career.

Sadly, Alexandra passed away on January 12, 2014, at the age of 67, after a battle with cancer. She had just lost her beloved husband, Patrick Garland, earlier that year, and her death marked the end of an era. Her legacy, however, lives on through the ABC Animal Sanctuary, which continues to care for animals in need.

Legacy and Impact: A Life Well Lived

Alexandra Bastedo’s life was defined by both glamour and compassion. Her role as Sharron Macready in The Champions made her a global icon, but it was her dedication to animals and her tireless efforts to improve their welfare that truly defined her legacy. From an early passion for animals to founding a sanctuary that has saved countless lives, Alexandra proved that it is possible to use fame for a greater cause.

Her career was a remarkable journey, from a young actress discovering her potential to a woman who built an enduring legacy of love and care for animals. Alexandra’s ability to balance stardom with meaningful work outside the spotlight is a testament to her character, and her story continues to inspire fans and animal lovers alike.

Conclusion: A Truly Remarkable Journey

Alexandra Bastedo’s path from a seaside town in England to international fame and animal welfare advocacy captures the essence of a life well-lived. Her role in The Champions cemented her as an iconic figure in television, while her passion for animals and commitment to rescuing them showed the depth of her compassion. Her legacy, both on screen and through her sanctuary, remains a shining example of how one can make a lasting impact on the world. Alexandra’s journey reminds us that true fulfillment comes not only from fame but from following one’s heart and using one’s influence for good. What a remarkable and unforgettable woman she was.