Pauline Collins Dies at 85
British actress Pauline Collins, internationally renowned for her Oscar-nominated role in the 1989 film Shirley Valentine, has passed away at the age of 85.
Career Highlights and Legacy
Collins was best known for portraying the iconic character Shirley Valentine, a role that brought her widespread acclaim and recognition. Beyond that, she captivated audiences with a diverse range of characters including politicians, mothers, and queens.
“Pauline was so many things to so many people, playing a variety of roles in her life. A bright, sparky, witty presence on stage and screen. Her illustrious career saw her play politicians, mothers and queens,” read a family statement.
“She will always be remembered as the iconic, strong-willed, vivacious and wise Shirley Valentine – a role that she made all her own. We were familiar with all those parts of her because her magic was contained in each one of them.”
Personal Background
- Born on September 3, 1940, in Exmouth, England.
- Trained at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama in London.
- Rose to fame in the 1970s with her role as Sarah Moffat in the TV series Upstairs, Downstairs and its spinoff Thomas & Sarah.
Health and Passing
Pauline Collins suffered from Parkinson’s disease for several years and died peacefully surrounded by her loved ones, according to her family’s statement.
In 1989, she gained international recognition for her role in the film adaptation of Willy Russell’s play, Shirley Valentine, a performance that had previously earned her the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actress.
Author's summary: Pauline Collins, celebrated for her groundbreaking role in Shirley Valentine, passed at 85, leaving a lasting legacy as a versatile and cherished actress.