Shirley Valentine and Upstairs, Downstairs star Pauline Collins dies age 85

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Pauline Collins, the actress nominated for an Oscar, has passed away at 85, according to her family. She became well-known in the early 1970s for her role as Sarah Moffat in the British series Upstairs, Downstairs, and later received widespread praise for her performance in Shirley Valentine.

She received a BAFTA and Golden Globe award for her leading role in Lewis Gilbert’s film, which was adapted from a play by Willy Russell. She was also nominated for an Academy Award.

She died peacefully in her London care home, surrounded by her family, after a battle with Parkinson’s disease.

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Pauline was a talented and versatile actress, as her family shared with the BBC. She brought a lively and clever energy to every role, whether on stage or screen, and famously portrayed a wide range of characters – from political figures to everyday mothers and even royalty.

I’ll never forget her as Shirley Valentine – she was that character. She brought so much strength, energy, and wisdom to the role, making it completely her own. It’s how I’ll always remember her, honestly – as that incredibly vibrant and unforgettable woman.

“We were familiar with all those parts of her because her magic was contained in each one of them.”

Above all, she was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She was warm, funny, generous, and always there for her family, offering thoughtful wisdom. She also shared a beautiful 56-year partnership with her husband, John Alderton – they were not only life partners but also worked together as colleagues.

We’re especially grateful to her caregivers, who were truly wonderful and treated her with kindness, compassion, and deep love. She had a peaceful and comfortable passing. Please remember her as the vibrant and energetic person she was, and we ask for your understanding and privacy as we grieve her loss.

Collins appeared in several films including Forever Green, The Ambassador, City of Joy, Paradise Road, Albert Nobbs, and Quartet. Quartet featured a notable cast alongside Dame Maggie Smith, Tom Courtenay, Billy Connolly, and Michael Gambon.

I was so excited to learn she was in Doctor Who back in 1967, playing Samantha Briggs! It’s amazing she was part of that show, though it’s a little sad to hear she actually turned down the chance to come back for more episodes.

She told The Guardian in 2012 that while having a public profile earlier in her career might have been beneficial, she believes she wouldn’t have experienced as much if she had.

In 1992, Joan Collins released her autobiography, titled Letter to Louise. She was recognized for her contributions to acting in 2001 when she was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire.

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2025-11-06 22:19