Remembering Patricia Routledge: Celebrated ‘Keeping Up Appearances’ Star Passes Away at 96

Actress Dame Patricia Routledge, famous for her role as Hyacinth Bucket in the beloved sitcom Keeping Up Appearances, passed away at the age of 96. Her agency shared that she died peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by loved ones.

Dame Patricia’s career was a vibrant tapestry of roles. She starred in Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads monologues and portrayed the amateur detective Hetty Wainthropp on BBC One. Her work resonated with audiences across generations, making her a cherished figure in British entertainment.

Her agent reflected on her passion for performing, which remained strong even in her golden years. “New generations continue to find her through her delightful television roles,” they said.

Routledge’s portrayal of Hyacinth, a character characterized by her snobbery and obsession with social status, became iconic. She once described playing Hyacinth as “enormously enjoyable.” Keeping Up Appearances aired from 1990 to 1995 and cemented Routledge’s place in television history, earning her recognition as one of the nation’s favorite actresses.

Beyond sitcoms, Dame Patricia excelled in theater, starting her career in the 1950s. She won a Tony Award in 1968 for Darling of the Day on Broadway. Her range was impressive; she could handle serious drama and comedy with equal skill. For her role in Candide, she won the Olivier Award for best actress in a musical.

In the 1980s, she became a staple on British television, showcasing her talent in Victoria Wood’s As Seen on TV and several Talking Heads monologues. Her performance in A Lady of Letters earned her a BAFTA nomination.

Her legacy extends beyond awards. Jon Petrie, the BBC’s director of comedy, highlighted her contributions, emphasizing how Hyacinth Bucket became part of national culture: “Endlessly quotable, and loved around the world.”

Dame Patricia’s achievements didn’t go unrecognized. She received numerous honors, including an OBE in 1993, a CBE in 2004, and finally, she was made a Dame in 2017.

Dame Patricia Routledge leaves behind a legacy filled with laughter and joy. Her impact on theatre, television, and the hearts of many will be remembered.

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