You probably noticed that in the last few episodes of our Persuasion season, Ellen had reduced her role in the podcast. This was because her health had begun to decline.
I’m very sad to say that she passed away this week, after a short stay in hospital.
At this stage, I have not made any decision about whether it will be possible to continue the podcast without her, or if so, who else might join it.
I do know that she was very pleased that we were able to complete Persuasion.
Sending sincere condolences to your family and friends. Thank you so much for sharing Ellen’s gifts with us over the years. She will truly be missed and always remembered.
You and Ellen did an excellent job of creating a podcast that celebrates Jane Austen’s works and I love it. Sending sympathy and love in your time of loss. Ellen was your mother, friend and partner. Deepest sympathies.
Sending my condolences, and gratitude for sharing your thoughts and love of Jane Austen with us! Your thoughts expanded my lifetime of appreciation for the novels and the global community of people who love her. Rest in Peace, Ellen.
I’m sorry for your loss, and I wish your family comfort in this difficult time. I found it heartwarming to hear a mother and daughter have these wonderful conversations about Jane Austen’s books. I’ve listened to all the episodes multiple times.
Dear Harriet. I am very sorry for your loss. My heart felt condolences to you and your family. Ellen brought such a fun perspective on each episode and I am very grateful. She will be truly missed. I imagine that you have now very difficult decisions to make and I trust you’ll do what is best for you and your heart.
Dear Harriet – so very sad about your mother Ellen. It has been such a pleasure to listen to the joy you found in each other’s commentary and discussion in all these episodes. She will be missed by all of us.
A listener from Vermont, USA
I am so sorry for your loss. Ellen’s knowledge of the period, her skilled research, and her insights into the novels were truly inspiring, and her sense of humor made the episodes a pleasure. May her memory be a blessing.
I’m so sorry to hear this. I want to thank you for the time you both took to create the podcast and share it with others. I’ve tried a number of Austen podcasts, and yours is one of my favorites.
Amongst so many Jane Austen podcasts yours really stood out for the wit, charm and insight you brought. I also loved that you were doing this with your mother – that’s a testament to your relationship that you enjoyed creating this together and spending so much time in it. One thing Ellen made me re-think (amongst so many) was about Emma’s relationship with her father. Condolences and thanks for so many great hours spent in your company.
Harriet, I am so very sorry for your loss. It has been a joy to listen to you and Ellen over the last years. Yours is easily my favorite Jane Austen podcast for how informative, balanced and well structured it is. One of the best moments of the Persuasion season was Ellen’s funny commentary on Louisa revealing to Captain Wentworth that Anne had turned down her brother likely due to Lady Russell’s influence.
Thank you for sharing your wonderful relationship and mutual love of Austen with us.
Harriet, I’m very sorry for your loss and want to sent you my condolences.
I also want to thank you for the wonderful podcast you and your mother Ellen made. I have tried several other Austen podcasts, but none could really interest me, except yours, it really stands out. I was always looking forward to a new episode, because of the insightfulness and wit in the discussions between your mother and you, the sparkle. You both know what you are talking about and for me your podcast is quite in the spirit of Jane Austen. It is now also something by which she will remembered with warmth.
A listener from The Netherlands
Harriet, my heart goes out to you and your whole family and circle of loved ones. I just discovered your podcast a few months ago and it has been such a pleasure to listen to you and Ellen (and Michael !) discuss Jane Austen’s works with such depth and such joy. What a gift she shared with you. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time. May her memory be a blessing.
Many, many condolences to you Harriet, Michael and to the rest of your family and friends.
This has been one of my all time favorite podcasts and I’m sure I’ll listen to it again. “Persuasion” is my favorite of Austen’s books so I’m glad too that it was finished.
Ellen was a treasure! Thank you for sharing her with us. ????
I listened to the podcast announcement when it was first announced but was so surprised I forgot to find a place to comment. I am sorry for your loss and I am sorry I didn’t leave comment of appreciation when both of you could have red it