Actress Barbara Leigh-Hunt Dies at 88

Barbara Leigh-Hunt, an esteemed actress renowned for her work in both film and theater, passed away peacefully at her home in Warwickshire, England, on September 16 at the age of 88. She gained fame for her role as Brenda Blaney in Alfred Hitchcock's 1972 thriller 'Frenzy,' where she delivered one of the most controversial performances of the era. Leigh-Hunt's extensive career spanned over seven decades, including notable roles in the BBC's 1995 adaptation of 'Pride and Prejudice' as Lady Catherine de Bourgh, as well as significant stage performances with the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre, earning her an Olivier Award in 1993. Her versatility shone through in various roles, including Lady Bracknell in 'The Importance of Being Earnest' and the tragic Ophelia in 'Hamlet.' Born in 1935, she made her theatrical debut shortly after graduating from the Bristol Old Vic theater school and left a lasting legacy in the performing arts. Her contributions to both stage and screen have established her as a beloved figure in British theater history.