Candy Davis: Model, Actress, Author & More! A Life Remembered

Have you ever wondered how one person can embody seemingly disparate identities? The captivating life of Beatrice Clare Dunkel, known to many as Candy Davis, and to readers as Mo Hayder and Theo Clare, is a testament to the human capacity for reinvention and the complex tapestry of experiences that shape us.

Born Clare Damaris Bastin on January 2, 1962, in London, England, her journey was anything but linear. The daughter of an education officer and a school headmistress, her early life laid the foundation for the intellectual pursuits she would later embrace. However, her path took an unexpected turn when she entered the world of glamour modeling, adopting the moniker Candy Davis. As Candy Davis, she became a well-known face, gracing the pages of British tabloids, most notably as a Page Three girl in The Sun. Her allure and confidence led her to win the Miss Nude pageant in 1982, solidifying her place in the public eye.

However, the Candy Davis persona was just one act in a multifaceted life. After leaving her modeling career behind, she embarked on a journey of self-discovery that led her to Japan at the age of 25. There, she worked as a hostess in a Tokyo nightclub, an experience that profoundly impacted her. She recounted that witnessing death firsthand during this period ignited a fascination with crime, a theme that would later dominate her literary work.

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Returning from Japan, Clare shed the Candy Davis identity and immersed herself in the world of literature. She adopted the pen name Mo Hayder and carved out a niche for herself as a writer of dark, disturbing, and critically acclaimed crime fiction. Her novels, often exploring the darkest corners of the human psyche, garnered both praise and controversy for their unflinching portrayal of violence and depravity. The Jack Caffery series, in particular, cemented her reputation as a master of the genre, drawing comparisons to literary giants such as Thomas Harris and Philip Kerr.

Her writing style was characterized by its intensity and unflinching realism. Like the solitary Englishwoman Grey in one of her novels, seeking a rare piece of footage documenting a monstrous episode of the 1937 Nanking Massacre, Hayder fearlessly delved into the most unsettling aspects of human history and behavior. She didn't shy away from exploring the psychological depths of both perpetrators and victims, creating narratives that were as thought-provoking as they were unsettling.

In addition to her work as Mo Hayder, Clare also wrote under the pen name Theo Clare, further demonstrating her versatility as an author. This allowed her to explore different themes and writing styles, showcasing the breadth of her creative talent. Regardless of the name she used, her work was consistently praised for its originality and its ability to captivate readers.

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Before reinventing herself as an author, Candy Davis, as she was known then, made appearances in various television programs. She played Miss Belfridge, Mr. Rumbold's blonde secretary, in series 9 and 10 of the popular BBC sitcom "Are You Being Served?". Her earlier television work also included a stint as a stripper in a 1982 episode of "Minder," appearances as one of Hill's Angels dancers in a holiday sketch on "The Benny Hill Show" (1983), and smaller roles in "The Comic Strip Presents." These early roles showcased her comedic timing and her ability to embody different characters.

Her personal life also saw its share of transformation. She married actor Gary Olsen, best known for his role in the sitcom "2point4 Children," in 1985, but the marriage later ended in divorce. This period of her life, marked by both professional success and personal challenges, undoubtedly contributed to the depth and complexity of her later work.

Clare Dunkel's death on July 27, 2021, at the age of 59, from complications of motor neurone disease, brought an end to a remarkable life. Tributes poured in from across the literary world, with her agent, Jane Gregory, describing her as a "brilliant writer and a wonderful, extraordinary, unique human being." Her legacy lives on through her novels, which continue to captivate and disturb readers around the world.

From glamour model to crime fiction author, Clare Dunkel's journey was one of constant evolution and reinvention. She embraced different identities, explored diverse experiences, and ultimately left an indelible mark on both the entertainment and literary worlds. Her story is a reminder that individuals are often far more complex than their public personas suggest and that the most unexpected paths can lead to profound achievements.

The versatility of Clare Dunkel shines through her various career choices. As Candy Davis, she captivated audiences with her beauty and charm, while her performances in shows like "Are You Being Served?" highlighted her comedic skills. As Mo Hayder and Theo Clare, she crafted gripping narratives that explored the darkest aspects of humanity, earning her critical acclaim and a dedicated readership.

Her decision to adopt pen names reflects a desire to separate her different personas and to allow her work to be judged on its own merits. As Mo Hayder, she was free to explore the gritty realities of crime without being constrained by the expectations associated with her earlier modeling career. This allowed her to create a distinct literary identity and to establish herself as a serious and respected author.

The impact of her time in Japan on her writing cannot be overstated. Witnessing death firsthand sparked a fascination with the darker side of human nature, which became a recurring theme in her novels. Her experiences in Tokyo also exposed her to different cultures and perspectives, broadening her understanding of the world and enriching her storytelling abilities.

Her novels are characterized by their psychological depth and their unflinching portrayal of violence. She delved into the minds of both perpetrators and victims, exploring the motivations and consequences of their actions. Her writing is often disturbing and unsettling, but it is also deeply thought-provoking, forcing readers to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves and the world around them.

The Jack Caffery series, in particular, is a testament to her skill as a crime writer. The series follows the titular detective as he investigates a series of gruesome murders, each more disturbing than the last. The novels are known for their intricate plots, their compelling characters, and their atmospheric settings. They have been praised for their realism and their ability to keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Her influence on the crime fiction genre is undeniable. She helped to push the boundaries of what was acceptable in crime writing, challenging readers to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves and the world around them. Her work has inspired a new generation of crime writers to explore the darker side of human nature and to create narratives that are both gripping and thought-provoking.

The tributes that poured in after her death are a testament to the impact she had on the lives of those who knew her. Her agent, Jane Gregory, described her as a "brilliant writer and a wonderful, extraordinary, unique human being." Others praised her for her kindness, her generosity, and her unwavering commitment to her craft.

Her legacy as a writer and as a person will continue to inspire for years to come. She was a true original, a woman who dared to defy expectations and to pursue her passions with unwavering determination. Her story is a reminder that it is possible to reinvent oneself and to achieve success in unexpected ways.

Beyond her literary achievements, Candy Davis's earlier career as a model and actress showcased her versatility and willingness to embrace different challenges. Her role in "Are You Being Served?" provided her with a platform to showcase her comedic talents, while her appearances in other television shows demonstrated her ability to adapt to different roles and genres.

Her decision to transition from modeling and acting to writing reflects a desire to express herself in a more meaningful and impactful way. As a writer, she was able to explore complex themes and to create characters that resonated with readers on a deep emotional level. Her novels are not just crime stories; they are also explorations of human nature, morality, and the complexities of the human condition.

Her work as Mo Hayder and Theo Clare allowed her to explore different aspects of her personality and to experiment with different writing styles. As Mo Hayder, she was able to delve into the darker side of human nature, while as Theo Clare, she was able to explore more fantastical and imaginative themes.

Her ability to seamlessly transition between different genres and writing styles is a testament to her talent and her adaptability. She was a true artist, constantly pushing the boundaries of her craft and challenging herself to create something new and original.

Her influence on popular culture extends beyond her literary achievements. As Candy Davis, she became a symbol of female empowerment, challenging societal norms and celebrating female sexuality. Her appearances in magazines and television shows helped to break down barriers and to pave the way for future generations of women in the entertainment industry.

Her story is a reminder that it is possible to be both beautiful and intelligent, both sensual and intellectual. She defied stereotypes and challenged expectations, proving that women can be anything they want to be.

Her death was a loss not only to the literary world but also to the wider community of artists and entertainers. She was a true inspiration, a woman who lived life on her own terms and who left an indelible mark on the world.

Her legacy will continue to inspire for years to come, reminding us that it is possible to reinvent ourselves, to pursue our passions, and to make a difference in the world.

Candy Davis, Mo Hayder, Theo Clare these are just some of the names that represent the multifaceted life of Beatrice Clare Dunkel. Her journey from glamour model to acclaimed author is a testament to the human capacity for reinvention and the power of the human spirit to overcome challenges and achieve greatness.

She was a woman who dared to dream, who dared to challenge conventions, and who dared to live life on her own terms. Her story is an inspiration to us all, a reminder that anything is possible if we are willing to work hard and to believe in ourselves.

Her influence on the world will continue to be felt for generations to come, as her books continue to be read, her films continue to be watched, and her story continues to be told.

Beatrice Clare Dunkel, Candy Davis, Mo Hayder, Theo Clare a name, or rather, names, that will forever be etched in the annals of entertainment and literature.

She was born on january 2, 1962 in london, england, uk.

Died july 27, 2021 in uk (motor neurone disease) birth name clare damaris bastin.

She was an actress and writer, known for are you being served?(1972), underworld (1985) and the treatment (2014).

Night court and the fall guy actress dies age 70;