Dame Patricia Routledge, Iconic 'Keeping Up Appearances' Star, Dies Aged 96

Dame Patricia Routledge, renowned for her unforgettable portrayal of Hyacinth Bucket in the beloved sitcom 'Keeping Up Appearances,' has died peacefully in her sleep at 96. Her passing marks the end of an era for British comedy and theatre, with fans and colleagues alike mourning a truly remarkable performer.

Key Takeaways

• Dame Patricia Routledge was best known for her comedic genius as Hyacinth Bucket (pronounced "Bouquet")

• She enjoyed a distinguished career on both stage and screen, earning a Tony, Olivier, and a Damehood.

• Routledge's eccentric and lovable characters earned her generations of devoted audiences worldwide.

Early Life And Theatrical Beginnings

Born Katherine Patricia Routledge on 17 February 1929 in Birkenhead, near Liverpool, she nurtured her love for the arts at the University of Liverpool before honing her craft at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. Her early acting debut came in the 1950s, setting the stage for a distinguished West End and Broadway career. Routledge's performances ranged from Shakespeare to musical theatre, showcasing her remarkable versatility.

Rise To Television Stardom

Although she shone on stage for decades, Routledge became a household name in the early 1990s with her role as Hyacinth Bucket in Roy Clarke’s sitcom 'Keeping Up Appearances.' The character’s relentless social climbing and insistence on the "Bouquet" pronunciation quickly became TV legend. The show drew in millions, both in the UK and internationally, and remains one of the most exported British sitcoms.

Notably, she won a British Comedy Award for the role and was nominated twice for the BAFTA TV Awards. Later, she took on the role of amateur detective Hetty Wainthropp, starring in the BBC's 'Hetty Wainthropp Investigates.'

Achievements Beyond Comedy

Routledge’s career spanned far beyond sitcoms. She was celebrated in the West End and on Broadway, winning a Tony Award for ‘Darling of the Day’ and an Olivier Award for ‘Candide.’ Collaborations with luminaries such as Alan Bennett, Victoria Wood, and Leonard Bernstein cemented her status as a multi-talented performer.

Her honours included an OBE, a CBE, and ultimately a Damehood for services to drama and charity. Routledge was known for her humility about her craft, attributing her success to boundless curiosity and dedication.

Personal Life And Lasting Legacy

Dame Patricia lived a private life in Chichester from 2000 onwards. She never married, once remarking that her devotion to acting had determined the course of her life. In a recent BBC Four documentary, she reflected on how much joy her most famous role brought to audiences.

Tributes from colleagues and fans underline her influence: she leaves behind a legacy rich in laughter and excellence, having inspired generations of actors and brought happiness to millions worldwide.

Patricia Routledge’s impact on the arts and popular culture will long endure, with Hyacinth Bucket remaining forever in the pantheon of classic British comedy.

Sources

• Keeping Up Appearances Star Was 96, Variety.

• Patricia Routledge dies aged 96, British Comedy Guide.

• It’s Bouquet! Comedy star Patricia Routledge captured hearts as TV’s Hyacinth, Yahoo News UK.