Beloved British actress Dame Patricia Routledge, best known for her unforgettable role as Hyacinth Bucket in the BBC sitcom Keeping Up Appearances, has died at the age of 96.
Her agent confirmed the news, stating that Routledge passed away peacefully in her sleep.
“She died peacefully in her sleep this morning surrounded by love,” the statement read.
“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.”
Routledge found national and international fame through her portrayal of Hyacinth Bucket – pronounced “Bouquet,” as the character insisted – in Keeping Up Appearances, which aired on the BBC from 1990 to 1995.
The performance earned her widespread acclaim and saw her voted the nation’s most popular actress during the BBC’s 60th anniversary awards.
Following her success on Keeping Up Appearances, she went on to star in the BBC drama Hetty Wainthropp Investigates from 1996.
Tributes have poured in following news of her passing, with BBC director of comedy Jon Petrie calling her work “iconic.”
“She made millions laugh and left a legacy that will always be remembered with gratitude and admiration,” he said.
“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.
“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.”
Roy Clarke, creator of Keeping Up Appearances, also released a statement reflecting on Routledge’s extraordinary talent.
“It’s a fortunate coincidence to find your scripts in the hands of so accomplished an actor.
“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.”
Routledge once described the character of Hyacinth as an “absolute monster,” but said she “enjoyed playing her enormously.”
Her death marks the end of an era in British television, with Dame Patricia remembered not only for her comedic brilliance but for her lifelong dedication to the craft of performance.
Images: IMDB
