Scottish film creator Paddy Higson has died at the age of 83 following a battle with cancer.
Her family announced her death on social media, saying she was surrounded “by so much love” in her final moments.
Higson, who was widely known as “the mother of the Scottish film industry”, was a pioneering producer whose career spanned several decades.
Actor David Hayman bestowed the maternal title upon Higson when presenting her with a Scottish Bafta for outstanding contribution to the Scottish film industry in 2018.
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Her family said they were “heartbroken” but found comfort “in knowing she is no longer suffering”.
Higson began her career with the BBC in the 1970s as a production secretary before rising through the ranks.
She was best known for her work on the 1981 cult classic Gregory’s Girl, which she produced alongside director Bill Forsyth.
Their creative partnership proved fruitful, with the pair collaborating on several influential Scottish films.
Despite retiring, Higson remained active in the industry, continuing to contribute to Scottish cinema.
Her work helped establish Scotland as a filmmaking hub, with her productions showcasing Scottish culture and talent to wider audiences.
Higson also worked extensively with director Peter Mullan, producing acclaimed films including The Magdalene Sister and Orphans.
Her television work was equally impressive, with production credits on popular Scottish series including Taggart, Monarch of the Glen, and Cardiac Arrest.
She also produced episodes of the children’s television show Katie Morag after her official retirement.
Higson was awarded an OBE in the 2023 King’s New Years Honours List for her services to the Film and Television Industry and to Diversity and Inclusion.
Her commitment to Scottish storytelling helped bring authentic Scottish narratives to both the big and small screen.
Higson was formerly the patron and CEO of Media Access Centre (GMAC Film) in Glasgow, where she continued her lifelong commitment to nurturing new talent.
“Right from the ’70s I’ve been involved in training and bringing new people into the business,” Higson said in a 2022 interview.
She created several schemes helping young people enter the film industry, with increased representation always vital to her work.
Her children’s tribute captured her legacy beyond filmmaking: “Not only have the three of us lost our amazing and extraordinary mother, we as a wider community have lost a kind and generous, supportive and selfless pioneer.”
Her funeral will be arranged in due course.
