At 94, Dame Patricia Routledge is still living a life that many only dream of. The celebrated actress, known worldwide for her unforgettable portrayal of Hyacinth Bucket in Keeping Up Appearances, looks back on her remarkable career with a smile that radiates warmth and fondness.

Her career has spanned more than eight decades, and she has earned a place in the hearts of millions of fans with her unforgettable performances in theatre, television, and film.

“I’ve loved every minute of my showbiz life,” Patricia says from her home in Chichester, UK. Her career has taken her from the stages of London to Broadway, and she has garnered accolades along the way, including an Olivier Award and a Tony for her performances.

But despite her immense success, Patricia remains humble, reflecting on how it all began.

“As a youngster, I dreamed of becoming a school teacher,” she laughs, sharing her early ambitions. “I imagined driving around in a flashy red sports car, with holidays filled with romances across Europe.” But fate had other plans.

Patricia’s love for performance became clear while she was at university, and in 1952, she started working at the Liverpool Playhouse. She fondly recalls sweeping the floors and making sure actors were ready for the stage before making her professional debut in A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

What followed was an extraordinary journey in the world of theatre and television. Patricia’s love for the stage remains unchanged, but she also gained worldwide fame with her portrayal of Hyacinth Bucket in Keeping Up Appearances.

The role of the snobbish social climber, who went to great lengths to appear “upper class,” captivated audiences and made Patricia a household name.

Her Majesty The Queen Makes A Special Visit To Chichester – YouTube

“Hyacinth leapt from the page,” she recalls of reading the first script. “I started reading at 1 a.m. and couldn’t stop. Her delusions of grandeur were outrageous, and I drew on memories of several ladies I remember as a young girl.”

The character resonated deeply with Patricia, and it was clear from the beginning that this would be a role that would define her career.

Though Keeping Up Appearances ended in 1995, its legacy lives on. Fans still adore Hyacinth’s quest for social superiority, and the show continues to be a beloved classic. The show even had royal fans, with Patricia revealing that Keeping Up Appearances was one of the Queen Mother’s favorite sitcoms.

“And the late Queen Elizabeth liked it too,” she adds. “Hyacinth would be flattered beyond words!”

The success of the show was overwhelming, but Patricia, ever the professional, was determined to leave on a high note. “I always think it’s better to go out on a high, leaving viewers wanting more than to linger too long,” she reflects. “I didn’t want to be the one asking, ‘Oh, is that still on?’”

Patricia’s career wasn’t just confined to television. She also had a stellar stage career, winning an Olivier Award and performing in productions such as Candide and The Importance of Being Earnest.

In 2017, Patricia was named a Dame for her services to theatre and charity—a moment she describes as one of the highest points of her life. “The then-Prince Charles – now King Charles – had a word in my ear… He said, ‘At last they have noticed!’” she laughs.

Though mostly retired, Patricia is still very much active. She tours with her conversation piece, Facing the Music, traveling across the UK and Ireland. “To still be working is such a thrill,” she says with a smile. “And getting out of bed each morning is such a joy.”

At 94, her enthusiasm for life remains infectious.

In pictures: When Queen visited Chichester Festival Theatre in 2017

Looking back, Patricia is filled with gratitude for the incredible journey she’s had. Her connection to the stage, her memorable portrayal of Hyacinth, and her many awards have all contributed to her lasting legacy in the entertainment world.

But it is the simple moments, like working with her Keeping Up Appearances co-stars and making close friendships along the way, that stand out most.

“I have fond memories of working on Keeping Up Appearances,” she says. “I made many close friends during that time, and we had such fun.” Sadly, most of her co-stars, including Clive Swift, Geoffrey Hughes, Josephine Tewson, and Mary Millar, have passed away.

“Their passings are a profound sadness to me,” she reflects, clearly cherishing the memories of the time they shared.

For Dame Patricia Routledge, acting has always been about more than just fame—it’s been about passion, dedication, and a love for storytelling. As she continues to delight audiences with her work, it’s clear that her impact on the world of entertainment will never be forgotten.