The world of theatre and film mourns the loss of Dame Joan Plowright, the celebrated British actress and widow of Laurence Olivier, who passed away at the age of 95. Her family confirmed her passing at Denville Hall, a retirement home for actors in southern England, where she was surrounded by loved ones.
Plowright's career spanned an impressive seven decades across stage, screen, and television. Her family expressed pride in her accomplishments and her inclusive nature. She was a prominent figure among a remarkable generation of British actors, including Judi Dench, Vanessa Redgrave, Eileen Atkins, and Maggie Smith.
Alongside her late husband, Laurence Olivier, Plowright significantly influenced the post-World War II British theatre scene. Born Joan Ann Plowright in Brigg, Lincolnshire, England, her theatrical journey began at the tender age of three, participating in her mother's drama group. She continued honing her craft during school breaks at university drama programs and later studied at the Laban Art of Movement Studio in Manchester before earning a scholarship to the Old Vic Theatre's drama school in London.
Her London stage debut in 1954 led to her joining the Royal Court Theatre two years later, where she gained recognition for her roles in John Osborne's plays. She collaborated with notable actors such as Albert Finney, Alan Bates, and Anthony Hopkins. Her film debut was an uncredited role in John Huston's "Moby Dick" (1956).
Plowright and Olivier's paths crossed professionally in the London production of Osborne's "The Entertainer" (1957), and they later married in 1961 while performing on Broadway. Plowright's Broadway performance in "A Taste of Honey" earned her a Tony Award. Following Olivier's death in 1989, Plowright experienced a career resurgence in her sixties, winning two Golden Globes in 1993 for her roles in "Stalin" and "Enchanted April."
Her extensive filmography includes appearances in "Dennis the Menace," "The Spiderwick Chronicles," and "The Scarlet Letter." Plowright is survived by her three children, Tamsin, Richard, and Julie-Kate, all actors, and several grandchildren.
