Dame Patricia Routledge, Known for 'Keeping Up Appearances,' Dies at 96

Dame Patricia Routledge, renowned for her iconic role as Hyacinth Bucket in the BBC sitcom "Keeping Up Appearances," has died peacefully at the age of 96. Routledge's portrayal of the snobbish yet endearing character made the show a global sensation, with its humor and memorable characters resonating internationally across 992 channels from America to Australia. Beyond her television success, Routledge had a distinguished stage career, earning both Olivier and Tony awards and was honored as a Dame in 2017 for her contributions to theatre and charity. Her agent expressed that she remained passionate about connecting with audiences even in her later years and will be dearly missed by fans and loved ones worldwide. The series also featured memorable performances by Clive Swift as Hyacinth's long-suffering husband, Richard, who similarly garnered admiration for his role. Routledge's legacy endures through her extensive work in television, theatre, and film, cementing her place as a cherished figure in British entertainment.