Joan Plowright, a towering figure in the world of stage and screen, has passed away at the age of 95. The celebrated actress, whose career spanned over seven decades, died peacefully on January 16, 2025, surrounded by her family at Denville Hall. Known for her commanding presence and extraordinary talent, Plowright leaves behind a legacy that has profoundly influenced the performing arts.
Joan Ann Plowright was born on October 28, 1929, in Brigg, Lincolnshire. She was the second of three children born to Daisy Margaret Burton and William Ernest Plowright. Her early life in Lincolnshire set the stage for a lifetime of theatrical achievement. From a young age, Plowright was drawn to acting, a passion that saw her win a drama trophy at a local theatre festival when she was just 15.
Attending Scunthorpe grammar school on a scholarship, Plowright's academic pursuits were brief. After leaving school at 17, she worked as a supply teacher before pursuing her true calling in drama at the Old Vic Theatre School in London. Her stage debut came in 1948 in Croydon with a production titled "If Four Walls Told," marking the beginning of a distinguished career.
Plowright's affiliation with the Old Vic Theatre Company was pivotal to her development as an actress. It was there she met fellow actor Roger Gage, whom she later married. Her time with the Royal Court was marked by dynamic performances in a variety of plays, including Arnold Wesker's "Roots" and Arthur Miller's "The Crucible." Notably, she starred in the title role of George Bernard Shaw's "Major Barbara" at the Royal Court, further cementing her reputation as a versatile performer.
Her career was not limited to the stage; Plowright also made significant contributions to film. She earned an Oscar nomination for her role as an imperious widow in "Enchanted April." Her ability to embody diverse characters won her acclaim across genres and formats. In theatre, she played the surrogate mother to a boy modelled on Franco Zeffirelli in a compelling stage production.
Joan Plowright's personal life intertwined with her professional endeavors. She was famously married to Laurence Olivier from 1961 until his death in 1989. The couple's partnership was one of the most celebrated in theatrical history, combining two incredibly talented forces. In addition to her acting career, Plowright directed "Married Love," a play about Marie Stopes, in 1988.
In 2013, she reprised her role as Saint Joan for the 50th birthday celebration of the National Theatre—an opportunity that allowed audiences to once again witness her powerful stage presence. Reflecting on her career and ethos, she once said:
“I was in touch with people who cared, as I cared, about creating a theatre which was to do with the 20th century. I found my own voice as an actress, and an exhilarating sense of purpose.”
Plowright's dedication to her craft was evident not only in her performances but also in her reflections on theatrical life. Her humor shone through when she recounted an amusing incident during one of her performances:
“I had to cook a ragout live on stage. The delicious smell sent people out at the interval looking happy but very hungry and the sale of sandwiches rocketed.”
Her ability to connect with audiences both emotionally and humorously was a hallmark of her career.