Prunella Scales, the beloved actress renowned for her role as Sybil in the classic British sitcom “Fawlty Towers,” has passed away at the age of 93, her family has confirmed. In a touching statement to the PA news agency, her sons, Samuel and Joseph West, shared that Scales died peacefully at her home in London.
The family noted that even in her final days, Scales maintained a connection to her iconic role, having watched “Fawlty Towers” just a day before her passing. They highlighted her remarkable 70-year acting career, which was unfortunately interrupted by dementia that led to her retirement. Despite these challenges, Scales lived at home and was surrounded by her loved ones until the end. She is remembered not only for her work in comedy but also for her deep talent that extended beyond the genre.
Scales was married to fellow actor Timothy West for an impressive 61 years until his passing in November 2024. She is survived by her two sons, a stepdaughter, seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. The family expressed their gratitude towards those who cared for her in her final moments, stating she passed away in comfort and love.
Best known for her portrayal of Sybil, the long-suffering spouse of Basil Fawlty (played by John Cleese), Prunella Scales achieved international acclaim for her comedic talents. Her performances in “Fawlty Towers” have been deemed some of the funniest moments in television history. Furthermore, her versatility as an actress allowed her to shine in various roles, including portraying Queen Elizabeth II in the film “A Question of Attribution” and performing in a one-woman show titled “An Evening With Queen Victoria.”
As news of her passing circulates, fans and fellow actors alike are mourning the loss of a true comedy icon. Prunella Scales leaves behind a rich legacy characterized by her remarkable talent and indomitable spirit in the face of life’s challenges.