Where Are the Stars of Keeping Up Appearances Now? A Look Back at the Cast of Britain’s Most Beloved Sitcom

When Keeping Up Appearances first aired in 1990, few could have predicted the cultural phenomenon it would become. With its unforgettable characters, razor-sharp wit, and endearing absurdity, the series became a jewel in the crown of British comedy. For five seasons, viewers were captivated by the social-climbing antics of Hyacinth Bucket—pronounced “Bouquet,” of course—and the long-suffering souls caught in her orbit. Thirty years on from the show’s end in 1995, the legacy of Keeping Up Appearances still sparkles, as do the lives of the iconic actors who brought it to life.

Let’s revisit the cherished cast of this British treasure—and see where life has taken them.

Dame Patricia Routledge – The Unforgettable Hyacinth Bucket

At the heart of Keeping Up Appearances was Dame Patricia Routledge, whose portrayal of Hyacinth Bucket remains one of the most iconic in sitcom history. With her clipped vowels, ostentatious hats, and unshakeable belief in her own elegance, Hyacinth was both infuriating and endearing—a masterclass in comedic performance.

After her triumph as Hyacinth, Routledge proved her range by starring as amateur sleuth Hetty Wainthropp in Hetty Wainthropp Investigates and delivering powerful performances in Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads monologues. Though she gradually stepped back from acting, she never stepped away from the spotlight. Routledge was recognized as a Dame in 2017 for her contributions to the arts and charity work—a fitting honor for someone whose talent has spanned decades and mediums.

In recent years, she has made select public appearances, including receiving honorary membership at the Royal Academy of Music. Reflecting on her Keeping Up Appearances fame during the show’s 30th anniversary special, she shared a delightful memory: “I don’t know when the moment hit me that we were rather successful, but taxi drivers quite often would say, ‘You’re not going to tell me how to drive this, are you?’” Even royalty took notice—Hyacinth was a favorite of the Queen Mother and reportedly enjoyed by Queen Elizabeth II as well.

At 95, Routledge remains a revered figure in British entertainment, her legacy as Hyacinth Bucket unmatched in its comedic brilliance.

Clive Swift – The Loyal Richard Bucket

Behind every socially ambitious woman is a husband trying not to lose his mind. As Richard Bucket, Clive Swift brought warmth, wit, and weary patience to Hyacinth’s harebrained schemes. With a raised eyebrow and a sigh of resignation, Swift’s portrayal was the perfect counterbalance to Routledge’s whirlwind performance.

After the show, Swift continued his acting career with appearances in Doctor Who, Peak Practice, and The Old Guys, where he played Roy opposite Roger Lloyd-Pack. Though his roles were often understated, Swift’s charm and gravitas always shone through.

Sadly, Swift passed away in 2019 at the age of 82. He left behind a rich legacy—and a family that includes son Joe Swift, a familiar face on Gardeners’ World and at the Chelsea Flower Show. Clive Swift’s quiet brilliance as Richard ensured that while Hyacinth soared to absurd heights, the show remained grounded in something real and relatable.

Josephine Tewson – The Timid yet Endearing Elizabeth Warden

Elizabeth Warden, the Buckets’ anxious neighbor, was played to perfection by Josephine Tewson. Always on edge around Hyacinth, Elizabeth’s trembling teacups and nervous smiles made her a fan favorite.

Tewson enjoyed a prolific career before and after Keeping Up Appearances, including a memorable role as Miss Davenport in Last of the Summer Wine. In later years, she embraced her comedy legacy with a one-woman show titled Still Keeping Up Appearances.

She passed away in 2022 at the age of 91, leaving behind a portfolio of performances that spanned television, stage, and radio. In her quiet way, Tewson was a cornerstone of British comedy, and her legacy lives on in the nervous laughter of every tea spill.

David Griffin – Emmet Hawksworth, the Reluctant Choir Director

As Elizabeth’s brother Emmet, David Griffin brought exasperated charm to the cast. Introduced in the second season, Emmet’s horror at Hyacinth’s constant, unsolicited singing was a recurring delight. His horrified refrain—“She’s singing again!”—became one of the show’s most beloved catchphrases.

Griffin continued acting after Keeping Up Appearances, touring in productions such as The Good Sex Guide and starring in numerous pantomimes. Though he has since stepped back from public life, his performance remains an essential part of the show’s success. Married to a French wife, Griffin now enjoys a quiet life, far from Hyacinth’s musical ambitions.

Geoffrey Hughes – Onslow, the Iconic Slob with a Heart

The show’s most colorful contrast to Hyacinth was Onslow, her slovenly brother-in-law played by the late Geoffrey Hughes. With his beer belly, racing vest, and no-nonsense attitude, Onslow was unapologetically working class—and Hyacinth’s worst nightmare.

Beyond Keeping Up Appearances, Hughes enjoyed a successful career with roles in The Royle Family (as Twiggy) and Heartbeat (as Vernon Scripps). He was also beloved for his portrayal of Eddie Yates in Coronation Street.

Diagnosed with prostate cancer in the 1990s, Hughes fought the disease for many years. He retired from acting following a relapse and passed away in 2012 at age 68. Hughes’ comic timing and undeniable charisma made Onslow a standout character—and an unexpected symbol of authenticity in a world obsessed with appearances.

Judy Cornwell – The Dreamy and Loyal Daisy

As Onslow’s romantic and slightly daft wife, Daisy, Judy Cornwell offered sweetness and mischief in equal measure. With her dreamy fantasies and enduring devotion to her husband, Daisy was a delightful foil to Hyacinth’s uptight perfectionism.

Cornwell continued her acting career post-Appearances, with roles in Midsomer Murders, Birds of a Feather, and EastEnders, where she played Queenie, the mother of Heather Trott. She is also an accomplished author, having penned several novels.

Cornwell remains active in public life and continues to delight fans with her warm recollections of the series.

Shirley Stelfox – The Original Rose

Hyacinth’s flamboyant and flirtatious sister Rose was first played by Shirley Stelfox in the debut season. Though later replaced by Mary Millar, Stelfox’s bold portrayal laid the foundation for one of the show’s most eccentric characters.

Stelfox had a long career in television, including stints on Brookside, Family Affairs, and as the formidable Edna Birch in Emmerdale. Tragically, she passed away in 2015 just weeks after being diagnosed with cancer, at age 74.

Her brief but memorable time on Keeping Up Appearances was a testament to her fearless approach to acting.

A Legacy That Endures

Three decades since its final curtain, Keeping Up Appearances continues to capture hearts across generations. The series’ timeless humor, sharp satire, and unforgettable characters remain as relevant and beloved as ever.

Though many of the cast have passed on, their performances live forever in reruns, streaming platforms, and the hearts of fans worldwide. Hyacinth Bucket may have been desperate to climb the social ladder, but the show—and its stars—secured something far more enduring: a place in television history.

Long may the candlelight suppers continue.