‘Keeping Up Appearances’ Actress Patricia Routledge Dies At 96
Patricia Routledge, the beloved “Keeping Up Appearances” actress, died peacefully at the age of 96.
The actress’ agent confirmed to the PA news agency Friday that she passed away “peacefully in her sleep this morning surrounded by love,” according to the BBC. The award-winning actress enjoyed a career that spanned both stage and screen, with acclaimed performances of three of Alan Bennett’s “Talking Heads” monologues, the title role in BBC One’s “Hetty Wainthropp Investigates” and a celebrated stage presence that secured her an Olivier Award for “Candide” back in the 1980s.
Routledge brought Shakespeare to life, appearing in “Richard III” and “Henry V” with the Royal Shakespeare Company.
BBC’s director of comedy honored the star, saying Routledge “made millions laugh and left a legacy that will always be remembered with gratitude and admiration.”
Roy Clarke, creator of “Keeping Up Appearances,” praised her extraordinary talent. “I’m sorry, as I’m sure so, so many people will be to hear of the death of Patricia Routledge. It’s a fortunate coincidence to find your scripts in the hands of so accomplished an actor,” he said.
He continued, “She was a singer and it showed in the way she could use her voice without music. It was an instrument. On top of such skills she was also a very fine physical clown. With those talents she took my scripts to the heights. I can only salute her talents and regret their passing.”
Her agent issued a statement along with announcing her death, according to the BBC. “Even at 96 years old, Dame Patricia’s passion for her work and for connecting with live audiences never waned, just as new generations of audiences have continued to find her through her beloved television roles. She will be dearly missed by those closest to her and by her devoted admirers around the world,” they said.
Beyond comedy, Routledge excelled across genres. She starred in Victoria Wood’s “As Seen on TV” and earned a BAFTA nomination in 1988 for “A Lady of Letters.” She went on to clinch two further BAFTA nods for “Keeping Up Appearances” in 1992 and 1993.
Routledge leaves behind a legacy of humor, depth and unforgettable performances that will continue to inspire laughter and admiration for generations to come.