The famous British stage and film star Joan Plowright, who was married to actor Laurence Olivier for 28 years, has died at the age of 95, her family announced.
A statement issued by the Plowright family to the press said: “It is with great sadness that the family of Joan Plowright, Mrs. Olivier, inform you that she passed away peacefully on January 16, 2025, surrounded by her family, at Denville Hall, at the age of 30.” 95.
“Her wonderful career will be remembered by many, always cherished by her children Richard, Tamsin and Julie-Kate, their families and Joan’s many friends. We are extremely grateful to all those who helped to care for her in her final years.”
Plowright was an icon of stage and screen, appearing in the likes of Enchanted April, The Scarlet Letter And the Broadway version of Taste of honeyFor which she won a Tony Award.
Born in 1929 in Lincolnshire, she made her stage debut in 1954 and subsequently starred with Sir Laurence Olivier in the original production of John Osborne’s play in London. Artistbefore appearing in the film version of this production.
She appeared in more plays during the 1970s and 1980s and moved more to the screen in the 1990s.
In 1992, she appeared in the film Mike Newell’s April is enchanted As Mrs. Fisher, she received an Academy Award nomination and a Golden Globe Award for her performance. Other major performances included The Scarlet Letter, 101 Dalmatians and Tea with Mussolini. She appeared on television on HBO Stalin, Which also won a Golden Globe Award in the same year April is enchantedand others like him Encore! Encore!.
Plowright was married to Olivier from 1961 until his death in 1989, and worked closely with the UK icon at the National Theatre, which he created. She was named a Dame in the 2004 New Year’s Honors List.
She is survived by her three children, Richard, Tamsin and Julie Kate.