Camp icon Dame Patricia Routledge dies aged 96
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Dame Patricia Routledge, the legendary British actress best known for her role as the indomitable Hyacinth Bucket in the beloved sitcom Keeping Up Appearances, has died peacefully in her sleep at the age of 96. Her passing marks the end of an era for generations of fans, including many in the LGBTQ+ community who embraced her character’s flamboyant charm and comic precision as a beacon of camp brilliance.
Routledge, who was born in Birkenhead, Cheshire, in 1929, enjoyed a career that spanned more than seven decades across stage, screen, and musical theatre. Her portrayal of Hyacinth - insisting on pronouncing her surname “Bouquet” with theatrical flair - became a cultural touchstone. The character’s obsession with social climbing, her dramatic telephone voice, and her relentless pursuit of perfection made her a queer icon, celebrated for her exaggerated femininity and unapologetic eccentricity.
In a statement, her agent said: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of Dame Patricia Routledge, who died peacefully in her sleep this morning surrounded by love. Even at 96 years old, Dame Patricia’s passion for her work and for connecting with live audiences never waned, just as new generations of audiences have continued to find her through her beloved television roles.”
Beyond Keeping Up Appearances, Routledge’s career was rich and varied. She won a Tony Award in 1968 for Darling of the Day and an Olivier Award for Candide. In 2017, she was honoured with a damehood for her services to theatre and charity.
