Joan Plowright, the esteemed British actress renowned for her contributions to stage and screen, has passed away at the age of 95. She died peacefully on Thursday at Denville Hall, London, surrounded by her family. In a heartfelt statement, her family reflected on her remarkable career spanning over six decades and noted that Plowright cherished her final years in Sussex, where she enjoyed the company of friends and family, filled with laughter and cherished memories.
Plowright first captured the public’s attention in 1960 as the loving granddaughter in the film adaptation of John Osborne’s “The Entertainer,” a role she reprised from its successful stage productions on the West End and Broadway. Shortly after, she married legendary actor and director Laurence Olivier, with whom she shared a prominent professional and personal bond for 28 years, participating in numerous productions, from Ionesco’s “Rhinoceros” to Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing.”
Following Olivier’s passing in 1989, Plowright continued to shine in the industry, showcasing her formidable talent in various films such as “Tea with Mussolini,” “Dennis the Menace,” and earning a Golden Globe for her role in “Enchanted April,” where she portrayed a comically strict widow.
Her journey in acting came to an end in 2014 due to macular degeneration that left her legally blind. However, she remained a spirited presence, notably in the documentary “Nothing Like a Dame,” where she entertained audiences with her humor and storytelling alongside fellow icons Maggie Smith and Judi Dench.
The legacy of Joan Plowright will endure as a testament to her passion for the performing arts, and her ability to bring characters to life vividly will be remembered by fans and fellow artists alike. Plowright’s contributions not only shaped the landscape of theatre and film but also inspired generations of actors, leaving behind a profound impact on the industry.