Dame Patricia Routledge, best known for her iconic role as Hyacinth Bucket in *Keeping Up Appearances*, reflected on the lasting impact of the show in a Channel 5 documentary, *Keeping Up Appearances: 30 Years of Laughs*. The actress, now 96, revealed how the sitcom had a profound effect on viewers, particularly those going through tough times. Patricia shared that she frequently receives heartfelt letters from fans expressing how the show helped them during difficult periods. One memorable letter came from a woman who, feeling like the world had collapsed around her, found comfort in watching the show. She mentioned that Hyacinth’s antics provided a welcome distraction, making it easier for her to get through her challenges. Patricia admitted that these kinds of messages made her feel that all the hard work on the show had been worthwhile.
Patricia also opened up about the admiration the show garnered from some high-profile individuals, including royalty. In the documentary, she recalled how *Keeping Up Appearances* was a favorite of the Queen Mother and Queen Elizabeth II. She mused that Hyacinth, with her obsession with social status, would have been flattered to know that the royal family enjoyed the show.
Despite the success of the sitcom, Patricia made the decision to bring it to a close when she was 77, much to the BBC’s dismay. She explained in *Patricia Routledge Remembers* that the show was beginning to recycle old ideas, and she didn’t want it to become stale. Patricia was inspired by the late Ronnie Barker, who always knew when to stop a project at its peak. She felt it was important to leave on a high note and sought new creative challenges, including taking on diverse roles as an actress.
When discussing what drew her to the character of Hyacinth, Patricia recalled reading the script late one night and immediately connecting with the character. She recognized the traits of Hyacinth in several people she knew, and she instantly felt that she could bring the character to life in a way that would resonate with audiences.
After *Keeping Up Appearances* ended, Patricia continued to shine in various roles, including playing Hetty Wainthropp in *Hetty Wainthropp Investigates* and performing as Lady Bracknell in *The Importance of Being Earnest*. Despite stepping away from the limelight of her famous sitcom, Patricia’s career has remained marked by impressive roles, and her legacy continues to be celebrated.
Her decision to step away from the show and the success that followed, both in her career and in the love fans continue to express for *Keeping Up Appearances*, highlights how deeply the sitcom has impacted its audience, making Patricia Routledge’s portrayal of Hyacinth Bucket an unforgettable piece of television history.
