Pauline Collins, Beloved Actress of Stage and Screen, Dies at 85
Pauline Collins, renowned for her roles in upstairs, Downstairs and Shirley Valentine, has died, her family announced. She was 85 years old.
Collins first gained widespread recognition in Britain in 1971 for her performance in the popular series Upstairs, Downstairs, alongside her husband of 56 years, John Alderton, with whom she had four children. Though, she achieved iconic status with her portrayal of a middle-aged woman rediscovering her passions in Willy Russell’s 1986 play Shirley Valentine. Throughout her career, Collins captivated audiences with diverse roles, portraying figures ranging from politicians to queens.
“Pauline was so many things to so many people, she played many different roles in her life. A bright,sparkling and funny character on stage and screen. She played politicians, mothers and queens in her career. But most of all she was our loving mother,our great grandmother and great grandmother.Kind, funny, generous, considerate, wise, always there for us. And she was the love of John’s life. Partner, collaborator and 56 years wife,” the family stated.
The family confirmed Collins died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, and expressed gratitude to her caregivers, calling them “the angels who cared for her with respect, compassion, and above all, love.” Thay added, “She could not have had a more peaceful farewell.”
