Dame Patricia Routledge, who became a household name as Hyacinth Bucket (Bouquet) in Keeping Up Appearances, has died, aged 96.
The Tranmere-born actress, who studied English at the University of Liverpool started her career working as an unpaid actress at Liverpool Playhouse in the 1950s, before joining the company and later studying at the Old Vic Theatre School in Bristol.
Moving to London, she built a stage career on both sides of the Atlantic, appearing on Broadway in the 60s and winning a Tony in 1967 for Darling of the Day. In 1984 she picked up a Laurence Olivier Award for her “Old Lady” in “Candide” (1988).
Of course she became best known in the 90s, appearing in the hugely popular BBC sitcom, Keeping Up Appearances, as the well-to-do, Hyacinth Bucket “it’s pronounced Bouquet.”
In 1991 she received a British Comedy Award for Best Comedy Actress for that performance and a year later was voted BBC Television Personality of the Year.
“We are so sad to hear of the passing of Dame Patricia Routledge. She was an actor of remarkable range, but her portrayal of Hyacinth Bucket in Keeping Up Appearances has to be one of the most iconic performances in British comedy,” said Jon Petrie, BBC Director of Comedy.
“She took a character on the page and gave her such truth, precision and warmth that Hyacinth became part of the national conversation; instantly recognisable, endlessly quotable, and loved around the world. Whatever she did, she brought impeccable craft, and in doing so inspired generations of writers, performers and audiences. Dame Patricia made millions laugh and left a legacy that will always be remembered with gratitude and admiration.”
Dame Patricia Routledge also performed in Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads monologues and on Victoria Wood: As Seen on TV.
Later she played the title role in the series Hetty Wainthropp Investigates.
“We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of Dame Patricia Routledge, who died peacefully in her sleep this morning surrounded by love,” said her agent in a statement.
“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 was made a Dame in 2017.
