Dame Joan Plowright, one of Britain’s most esteemed stage actresses, left an indelible mark on both the theatre and film industries. Born on October 29, 1929, in Brigg, Lincolnshire, she embarked on a remarkable career that spanned several decades. Her journey began when she made her professional stage debut in Croydon in 1948. This marked the start of a lifelong passion for the theatre, which remained her first love despite her subsequent success on the silver screen.
In 1956, Plowright joined the Royal Court Theatre in London, where she honed her craft and took on increasingly significant roles. Her talent and dedication quickly garnered attention, leading to a pivotal moment in 1957 when she co-starred with Sir Laurence Olivier in John Osborne's play, "The Entertainer." This collaboration not only showcased her exceptional acting abilities but also laid the foundation for a profound personal and professional relationship with Olivier.
Plowright's Broadway debut was equally illustrious. In 1961, she won a Tony Award for her role in "A Taste of Honey," solidifying her status as a formidable actress across the Atlantic. Despite her burgeoning career, she remained cautious about pursuing a relationship with Olivier, largely due to their age difference and his marriage to Vivien Leigh at the time. However, their bond ultimately proved undeniable, leading to a marriage that lasted 28 years until Olivier's death in 1989.
Her tenure at the theatre extended over a decade, during which she embraced grander roles than those offered at the Royal Court. Her versatility was evident not just on stage but in film as well. Plowright's prowess earned her a Golden Globe and an Oscar nomination for her performance in the 1991 film "Enchanted April." She also appeared in the 1990 black comedy "I Love You to Death," alongside Kevin Kline and Tracey Ullman, demonstrating her range and adaptability.
Plowright's filmography includes roles that defied conventional expectations of a stage actress. She portrayed Mrs. Fairfax in the 1996 adaptation of "Jane Eyre," and ventured into more mainstream cinema with appearances in "Dennis the Menace," "Last Action Hero," and "101 Dalmatians." Despite these achievements, Plowright often expressed her preference for stage work, famously stating, "You do films if the roof needs mending."
Her commitment to acting endured well into her 80s. Between 2000 and 2010, she appeared in a dozen films, a testament to her enduring passion and talent. However, in 2014, Plowright was forced to retire from acting due to failing sight. This marked the end of an era for a woman whose life had been dedicated to the arts.
Throughout her career, Plowright remained humble regarding her achievements. As she once quipped, "They all assume we think we're the bee's knees." Her humility resonated with audiences and peers alike, contributing to her revered status in the acting community.
For Plowright, talent was an attribute she admired deeply. She once commented on her late husband Olivier's distinctive personality: "He has extremes of behaviour, which you understand." Her admiration for talent extended beyond personal relationships; it was evident in her choice of roles and collaborations throughout her career.
Leave a Reply