Dame Joan Plowright, one of Britain's most celebrated stage and screen actors, has passed away at the age of 95, as announced by her family on January 16, 2025. She died peacefully at Denville Hall, a retirement home for actors in southern England, surrounded by her loved ones. Plowright had a remarkable career spanning over seven decades, where she garnered acclaim in theatre, film, and television until her retirement due to blindness.

Born on October 28, 1929, in Brigg, Lincolnshire, Plowright's passion for acting emerged early, thanks in part to her mother's involvement in amateur theater. After studying at the Old Vic Theatre School, she made her stage debut in 1948. Plowright quickly rose to prominence in the 1950s, joining the Royal Court Theatre and captivating audiences with her performances in plays by renowned playwrights, including George Bernard Shaw and Anton Chekhov. She was particularly known for her roles in The Entertainer and Major Barbara.

Plowright's marriage to Sir Laurence Olivier in 1961 marked not only a personal milestone but also a significant partnership that revitalized the U.K.'s theatrical scene post-World War II. Both appeared together in various productions, including the West End and Broadway, earning critical acclaim, including BAFTA nominations for their roles in the film adaptation of The Entertainer.

Throughout her career, Plowright received numerous accolades, including a Tony Award for her performance in A Taste of Honey and two Golden Globes in the same year in 1993 for her performances in Stalin and Enchanted April, the latter of which earned her an Academy Award nomination. In 2004, she was made a dame by Queen Elizabeth II in recognition of her contributions to the arts.

In a heartfelt statement, her family expressed their pride for all that Plowright achieved and her inclusive, loving nature. Playhouses across London's West End will dim their lights for two minutes in her honor, reflecting her significant impact on the theatre community.

Plowright is survived by her three children, Tamsin, Richard, and Julie-Kate, all of whom followed in her artistic footsteps, as well as many grandchildren. As tributes pour in, the legacy of Dame Joan Plowright will remain a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.

For a closer look at her illustrious career, read more from The Guardian, CBS News, AP News, and BBC.