Candy Davis: From Glamour Model To Acclaimed Author

**The life of an actress often seems straightforward from an outside perspective: auditions, roles, red carpets, and public adoration. However, for some, the journey is far more complex, a tapestry woven with unexpected turns, hidden talents, and profound reinventions. Such is the remarkable story of Candy Davis, an actress whose public persona evolved dramatically over her lifetime, revealing layers of ambition, intellect, and creativity that transcended the initial spotlight.** Her narrative is not just about acting; it’s a compelling testament to the human capacity for transformation, moving from the glare of glamour modeling and television screens to the quiet, intense world of acclaimed crime fiction writing. Born Clare Damaris Bastin, Candy Davis embodied a fascinating duality, successfully navigating vastly different professional landscapes. From her early days as a striking glamour model who graced Page 3, to her memorable comedic roles on British television, and ultimately, to her celebrated career as a bestselling author under the pseudonyms Mo Hayder and Theo Clare, her life was a continuous act of evolution. This article delves deep into the multifaceted career and personal life of Candy Davis, exploring the various chapters that defined her unique and impactful legacy in both the entertainment and literary worlds. --- **Table of Contents** * [The Enigmatic Journey of Candy Davis: A Life of Reinvention](#the-enigmatic-journey-of-candy-davis-a-life-of-reinvention) * [Who Was Candy Davis? A Biographical Sketch](#who-was-candy-davis-a-biographical-sketch) * [Personal Data & Biodata Table](#personal-data-biodata-table) * [From Page 3 to Prime Time: Candy Davis's Modeling and Acting Career](#from-page-3-to-prime-time-candy-daviss-modeling-and-acting-career) * [Beyond the Screen: The Literary Transformation to Mo Hayder and Theo Clare](#beyond-the-screen-the-literary-transformation-to-mo-hayder-and-theo-clare) * [The Birth of Mo Hayder: A New Chapter in Crime Fiction](#the-birth-of-mo-hayder-a-new-chapter-in-crime-fiction) * [Theo Clare: Exploring New Literary Horizons](#theo-clare-exploring-new-literary-horizons) * [Notable Works and Impact: Candy Davis's Legacy in Entertainment and Literature](#notable-works-and-impact-candy-daviss-legacy-in-entertainment-and-literature) * [Personal Life and Relationships: The Woman Behind the Names](#personal-life-and-relationships-the-woman-behind-the-names) * [The Final Chapter: Remembering Candy Davis (Clare Damaris Bastin)](#the-final-chapter-remembering-candy-davis-clare-damaris-bastin) * [Tributes and Lasting Impressions](#tributes-and-lasting-impressions) * [Why Candy Davis's Story Resonates: A Testament to Versatility and Reinvention](#why-candy-daviss-story-resonates-a-testament-to-versatility-and-reinvention) ---

The Enigmatic Journey of Candy Davis: A Life of Reinvention

The narrative of Candy Davis, born Clare Damaris Bastin, is one of constant evolution, a testament to an individual's capacity to redefine themselves across different professional spheres. Her life story unfolds like a captivating novel, beginning with a striking entry into the public eye as a glamour model, transitioning into a familiar face on British television, and culminating in a highly respected career as a crime novelist. This trajectory is not merely a series of career changes but a profound journey of self-discovery and intellectual pursuit. From the vibrant, often superficial world of modelling and acting, she delved into the dark, intricate realms of crime fiction, demonstrating an intellectual depth that many might not have initially attributed to her public image. The decision to embrace different identities – Candy Davis for her public persona in entertainment, and later Mo Hayder and Theo Clare for her literary endeavors – speaks volumes about her desire for creative freedom and perhaps, a degree of anonymity that allowed her true intellectual prowess to flourish.

Who Was Candy Davis? A Biographical Sketch

Candy Davis, known by her birth name Clare Damaris Bastin, was a British actress, model, and acclaimed author whose life was as rich and complex as the characters she created in her novels. Born on January 2, 1962, in Loughton, Essex, England, she was the daughter of intellectually accomplished parents: a university professor (an astrophysicist, specifically) and a school headmistress. This academic background, though seemingly at odds with her early career choices, undoubtedly fostered a keen intellect that would later define her literary success. Her early life saw her attend universities in both the UK and the US, hinting at an inquisitive mind and a desire for knowledge. However, at the age of 16, she made a decisive break from conventional paths, leaving school and moving to London. It was here that she adopted the name Candy Davis, marking the beginning of her public career as a glamour model and actress. This initial phase saw her rise to fame as a Page 3 model, even earning the title of Miss Nude 1982, before she transitioned into acting, primarily in comedic roles. Her most recognizable acting role was as Miss B Belfridge, Mr. Rumbold's secretary, in series 9 and 10 of the beloved BBC sitcom "Are You Being Served?". The latter part of her life saw a dramatic shift in her professional identity. She shed the persona of Candy Davis to embrace a new career as a crime novelist, writing under the pseudonyms Mo Hayder and later, Theo Clare. This transition showcased her versatility and deep intellectual capacity, proving that her talents extended far beyond the visual arts. She passed away on July 27, 2021, in the UK, at the age of 59, due to motor neurone disease, leaving behind a dual legacy in both entertainment and literature.