Renowned for her Oscar-nominated role in Shirley Valentine, the star’s family announced that she passed away “peacefully” at her care home in London, surrounded by loved ones, after battling Parkinson’s disease for several years.
In a statement released on Sunday, which was made public on Thursday (06.11. 25) evening, her family said: “Pauline was so many things to so many people, playing a variety of roles in her life. A bright, sparky, witty presence on stage and screen. Her illustrious career saw her play politicians, mothers and queens.”
“She will always be remembered as the iconic, strong-willed, vivacious and wise Shirley Valentine – a role that she made all her own.
“We were familiar with all those parts of her because her magic was contained in each one of them.
“More than anything, though, she was our loving mum, our wonderful grandma and great-grandma. Warm, funny, generous, thoughtful, wise, she was always there for us. And she was John’s life-long love. A partner, work collaborator, and wife of 56 years.”
The couple were among Britain’s most celebrated acting duos.
Pauline Collins, the star of Upstairs, Downstairs and Thomas and Sarah, was a beloved figure in her family, having three children – Nicholas, Kate and Richard.
Born and raised in Devon and Wallasey, Cheshire, Pauline transitioned from a brief stint as a teacher to train at the Central School of Speech and Drama.
She first tasted television success with the BBC sitcom The Liver Birds, but it was her role in Shirley Valentine that catapulted her to international stardom.
The 1989 film, an adaptation of Willy Russell’s stage play, earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress and a Golden Globe win for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical.
Her portrayal of a Liverpool housewife who rediscovers herself on a trip to Greece became one of the most iconic performances in British cinema during the 1980s.
Pauline’s illustrious career also saw her in No Sex Please, We’re British, Wodehouse Playhouse, Forever Green and The Time of Their Lives.
Her stage work spanned decades, featuring roles in London’s West End and regional theater productions.
Even in her later years, she continued to act, appearing in projects like Albert Nobbs, The Royale Family, and The Last Detective.
Pauline is survived by her husband John, their children and grandchildren.
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