How to stream Dame Patricia Routledge classic Keeping Up Appearances after icon’s death at 96

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Following the heartbreaking news of Dame Patricia Routledge’s death today, people are sharing their appreciation for her incredible work in shows like Hetty Wainthropp Investigates, Talking Heads, Victoria Wood: As Seen on TV, and the beloved sitcom Keeping Up Appearances. Fortunately, you can currently stream her memorable performance as Hyacinth Bucket in the UK.

The show, featuring Clive Swift, Josephine Tewson, Geoffrey Hughes, and Judy Cornwell, aired for five complete seasons from 1990 to 1995.

The story centers on Dame Routledge playing Mrs. Bucket (who charmingly insists it’s said “Bouquet”), a delightfully quirky woman from a middle-class background who is determined to impress those she sees as belonging to a higher social class. A single introductory episode titled Young Hyacinth, featuring Kerry Howard, was broadcast in 2016.

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As of today, viewers can enjoy the classic show on ITVX Premium, or with a NowTV Entertainment membership. Interestingly, both streaming services also offer Hetty Waintropp Investigates, where she played the lead detective for four seasons in the late 1990s.

Her representative shared the news today that she passed away “peacefully in her sleep this morning, with loved ones nearby”. She was 96 years old.

Keeping Up Appearances creator Roy Clarke was one of the first to express his sadness, telling BBC News in a statement: “I’m very sorry to hear about the passing of Patricia Routledge, and I’m sure many, many others will be too.”

It’s lucky that your scripts ended up with such a talented actor. Her background as a singer was clear in how skillfully she used her voice – it truly was like another instrument.

Beyond being incredibly talented, she was also a fantastic physical comedian. Honestly, she took my scripts and just elevated them to another level. I can only express my admiration for everything she could do, and I’m so sad we’ve lost her. It’s a real loss to everyone who appreciated her work. I really miss her and everything she brought to the table.

Emmerdale actress Lisa Riley, a co-star in the 1996 film Widdershins, was also among those sharing heartfelt messages. She posted on Instagram: “REST IN PEACE, Dear Dame Pat, you taught me so much when we worked together. I was just 14 years old, playing your young and mischievous detective apprentice.”

I continue to share stories about the chilly days we spent filming in Haslingden, Lancashire. You’ve brought so much joy to the country with your perfect comedic timing over the years – and now, I imagine, all the angels are enjoying a good laugh too. It was truly an incredible career.

Dame Routledge was a highly acclaimed actor, receiving four nominations for the prestigious Olivier Award for her stage performances. She won an Olivier Award in 1988, being named Best Actress in a Musical for her work in Candide. Notably, she also earned the same honor at the Tony Awards two decades prior, recognized for her role in Darling of the Day.

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2025-10-03 20:49