Spoiler Alert: Keeping Up Appearances – Where Are They Now?
It’s been over three decades since Keeping Up Appearances first graced our screens, and while Hyacinth Bucket’s (yes, “Bouquet” if you insist) attempts at social climbing are iconic, so too are the fates of the beloved cast after the show wrapped in 1995. Here’s what happened to the stars of this timeless British sitcom, which remains a global hit.
Dame Patricia Routledge, the actress behind the social-climbing Hyacinth, chose to retire from acting after the show’s finale. Despite her immense popularity, Patricia didn’t pursue any major roles following Keeping Up Appearances. Before retiring, however, she had an accomplished career, including starring in Hetty Wainthropp Investigates and Talking Heads. In 2017, Patricia was honored with a Damehood by Queen Elizabeth II for her contributions to entertainment. Though largely retired from acting, Patricia’s legacy continues to shine, and in 2022, she was even recognized with honorary membership to the Royal Academy of Music. She looked back fondly on her time as Hyacinth during a special program celebrating the show’s 30th anniversary, reminiscing about the surprise of its success. Interestingly, even the Queen Mother and Queen Elizabeth II were fans, and Patricia fondly recalls being recognized by taxi drivers who would make Hyacinth jokes.
Clive Swift, who portrayed Hyacinth’s beleaguered husband Richard Bucket, passed away in 2019 at the age of 82. Clive, known for his dry wit and grounded portrayal of Richard, continued his acting career post-Keeping Up Appearances, appearing in shows like Doctor Who and Peak Practice. His passing left a void, as Patricia Routledge expressed heartfelt admiration for Clive’s skill and collaboration on set.
Josephine Tewson, who played Elizabeth Warden, Hyacinth’s anxious neighbor, continued to delight audiences with her one-woman show Still Keeping Up Appearances until her retirement in 2019. The actress, who also starred in Last of the Summer Wine, passed away in 2022 at the age of 91. Josephine’s wit and partnership with Patricia behind the scenes were well known, and she once joked about the strict professionalism Patricia brought to their work together.
David Griffin, who played Elizabeth’s brother Emmet, had a quieter career after Keeping Up Appearances, appearing in various pantomimes and touring with Su Pollard in The Good Sex Guide. Now 81, David remains mostly out of the spotlight, happily married to his French wife.
Geoffrey Hughes, who played the indolent Onslow, the antithesis of Hyacinth’s upper-class aspirations, was a favorite character. Geoffrey’s later roles included Heartbeat and The Royle Family. Sadly, Geoffrey passed away in 2012 at 68 after battling prostate cancer. He is fondly remembered for his comic timing, especially as Onslow, and his role in Heartbeat as Vernon Scripps.
Judy Cornwell, who portrayed Daisy, Onslow’s more laid-back wife, continued acting in shows like Midsomer Murders and Birds of a Feather, and even had a notable role in EastEnders as Queenie. Beyond acting, Judy became a published novelist, penning several books, including Cow and Cow Parsley and The Seventh Sunrise. Now 84, she remains a beloved figure in British television.
Shirley Stelfox, who played Rose, Hyacinth’s promiscuous sister, left an indelible mark on the show despite her relatively short stint. After Keeping Up Appearances, Shirley had a notable role in Emmerdale, portraying Edna Birch from 2000 until 2015. Tragically, Shirley passed away in 2015 at the age of 74, just weeks after being diagnosed with terminal cancer.
In summary, the cast of Keeping Up Appearances has had diverse post-sitcom careers, with some continuing to thrive in the acting world, while others chose quieter paths or retired. Despite the passing years, the show’s legacy endures, with fans worldwide still fondly remembering the antics of Hyacinth, Richard, and the rest of the lovable characters.
