Dynasty Star Stephanie Beacham Recounts Terrifying Armed Raid on Her Home

Stephanie Beacham, best known for her role in the hit show Dynasty, has shared her harrowing experience of an armed raid at her home in Bayswater, London. The 76-year-old actress, who confronted the intruder, David Wilson, on October 25, 2022, revealed that she feared for her life during the incident.

The armed burglar, armed with a two-foot metal bar, ordered Beacham to hand over her money and jewelry. Wilson was subsequently sentenced to 10 years and five months in prison after admitting to the London aggravated burglary and a separate burglary in Sheffield.

Beacham recounted the terrifying ordeal during her appearance on the ITV show Good Morning Britain (GMB), stating that she initially thought it was someone she knew when she heard a noise downstairs. However, when she encountered Wilson, she realized the danger she was in.

In a panic, Beacham handed over her money and jewelry as Wilson threatened her with the metal bar. She also recalled the chilling moment when Wilson demanded to know what was in her Valentino handbag. Describing herself as a “total wimp” during the ordeal, Beacham followed Wilson’s instructions and locked herself in the bathroom.

Using her wit, Beacham picked up a “wobbly sponge” on a plastic handle, inspired by Jodie Foster’s character in the movie Panic Room. Eventually, she managed to phone the police after Wilson had left her home. Reflecting on the incident, Beacham expressed some sympathy for Wilson, which attracted the ire of the police officer who responded to her emergency call.

In February 2023, at Southwark Crown Court, Wilson received a sentencing of 10 years and five months for the burglary. The judge acknowledged the traumatic effect the incident had on Beacham, stating that it violated the sanctity of her home and caused her to experience heightened anxiety and difficulty focusing on her work as an actress.

Stephanie Beacham rose to fame with her role in the 1971 horror film The Nightcomers alongside Marlon Brando. She went on to star in other notable movies such as Dracula A.D. 1972, And Now the Screaming Starts!, and House of Mortal Sin. However, she is most beloved for her portrayal of Sable Colby in Dynasty, as well as the spin-off series The Colbys.

Beacham also made a memorable appearance in the long-running soap opera Coronation Street as Martha Fraser, where she was involved in a romantic storyline with Ken Barlow, played by William Roache. She briefly reprised her role as Martha Fraser in 2022.