Patricia Routledge’s portrayal of Hyacinth Bucket made Keeping Up Appearances a hit, but after five series, she decided to leave the show, bringing it to an end in 1995. Fans were heartbroken, and many still wonder: why did Routledge walk away from such a successful role? Let’s explore the reasons behind her departure.
Did She Want to Avoid Being Typecast?
In a 2017 interview, Routledge revealed that she took the advice of comedian Ronnie Barker, who believed in leaving a show at its peak. She didn’t want to be remembered solely as “Mrs. Bucket” and was eager to explore new roles. After Keeping Up Appearances, she starred in Hetty Wainthropp Investigates, which aired from 1996 to 1998, showing her desire to diversify her career. Routledge’s decision to leave was likely driven by a fear of being typecast—a common concern for actors in long-running sitcoms.
Was the Show Running Out of Steam?
Routledge also mentioned in the same interview that she felt writer Roy Clarke was “recycling some old ideas that we’d already dealt with.” After 44 episodes, including four Christmas specials, the show’s formula—Hyacinth’s social climbing thwarted by her family—might have been nearing its creative limit. Routledge may have sensed that continuing the show risked diminishing its quality, and she wanted to end on a high note with the final episode, “The Pageant,” in 1995.
Did She Have Other Ambitions?
Routledge, a trained stage actress with a background in theater, has always been passionate about diverse roles. Her decision to leave Keeping Up Appearances allowed her to return to the stage and take on more dramatic parts, showcasing her versatility. She may have felt that staying with the show would limit her opportunities to explore other facets of her craft.
Final Thoughts
Patricia Routledge’s decision to leave Keeping Up Appearances was a mix of wanting to avoid typecasting, preserving the show’s legacy, and pursuing new challenges. While fans might have wished for more episodes, her choice ensured that Hyacinth Bucket remained a beloved character, untainted by creative decline. Why do you think Routledge made the right call—or do you wish she’d stayed longer? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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