In October 1947, the MV Durban Castle embarks on its voyage, carrying among its passengers a 21-year-old actress named Gay Gibson. Known for her vibrant performances, Gibson is returning from a theatre tour in South Africa. As the ship sails towards Southampton, she spends an evening dancing before retreating to her first-class cabin. Hours later, the ship’s tranquility is shattered when Gibson vanishes, leaving behind an empty cabin and an open porthole.
Morning reveals a perplexing scene. Gibson’s cabin is found deserted, with unsettling stains on the sheets and the porthole ajar. Ship steward James Camb becomes the center of attention. He admits to a liaison with Gibson but insists her death was sudden and accidental. As Camb’s story shifts, forensic findings and witness testimonies cast doubt on his account, drawing the eyes of British authorities to the high seas mystery.
The trial of James Camb unfolds with dramatic flair, capturing public fascination. Though sentenced to hang, Camb’s life is spared due to a temporary suspension of the death penalty. He serves eleven years, but questions about his guilt linger, fuelled by his steadfast denials. With Gibson’s body never found, the case remains an enigmatic chapter in maritime history, echoing through the corridors of crime fiction and public intrigue.
Story Source: Book titled “Death of an Actress: A true story of sex, lies and murder on the high seas” (Mirror Books).
