British Actress Joan Plowright, Widow of Laurence Olivier, Dies at 95
A Legendary Career
Joan Plowright, the acclaimed British actress and widow of Laurence Olivier, passed away at the age of 95. Plowright’s family revealed in a statement that she had enjoyed a long and illustrious career spanning over seven decades in theater, film, and television until she retired due to blindness. The Tony Award-winning actress died at Denville Hall, a retirement home for actors in southern England, surrounded by her loved ones.
An Icon of the British Stage
Joan Plowright was part of an extraordinary generation of British actors, including Judi Dench, Vanessa Redgrave, Eileen Atkins, and Maggie Smith. Her talent and dedication to her craft were recognized with numerous accolades, including a Tony Award, two Golden Globes, and nominations for an Oscar and an Emmy. In 2004, she was honored with the title of dame by Queen Elizabeth II.
A Life Dedicated to Theater
Plowright, born Joan Ann Plowright in Brigg, Lincolnshire, England, was introduced to the world of theater at a young age. Her mother ran a drama group, and Plowright began performing on stage at the age of 3. She continued to pursue her passion for acting during school vacations, attending summer sessions at university drama schools. After completing high school, Plowright studied at the Laban Art of Movement Studio in Manchester before receiving a two-year scholarship to the drama school at the Old Vic Theatre in London.
In 1954, Plowright made her London stage debut and later became a member of the prestigious Royal Court Theatre. She gained recognition for her performances in dramas written by John Osborne and had the opportunity to work with renowned actors such as Albert Finney, Alan Bates, and Anthony Hopkins.
From Stage to Screen
Plowright made her feature film debut in 1956 with an uncredited role in John Huston’s adaptation of “Moby Dick.” She then went on to star alongside her future husband, Laurence Olivier, in the original London production of Osborne’s “The Entertainer” in 1957. The couple reprised their roles for the film adaptation in 1960.
Love and Loss
In 1961, Plowright and Olivier tied the knot while both were starring on Broadway. Their love story was filled with tender moments, as seen in Olivier’s heartfelt love letters to Plowright. However, tragedy struck when Olivier passed away in 1989 at the age of 82. Following his death, Plowright experienced a career resurgence at the age of 60.
A Legacy of Excellence
In 1993, Plowright achieved a rare feat by winning two Golden Globe Awards in the same year. She received the Best Supporting Actress in a Television Series award for “Stalin” and the Best Supporting Actress in a Motion Picture award for “Enchanted April.” Plowright’s filmography includes notable roles in movies such as “Dennis the Menace,” “The Spiderwick Chronicles,” and “The Scarlet Letter.”
Joan Plowright is survived by her three children, Tamsin, Richard, and Julie-Kate, all of whom are also actors, as well as several grandchildren. Her contributions to the world of theater and film will forever be remembered.
