Roy Clarke, the brilliant mind behind some of Britain’s most beloved sitcoms, has looked back on one of his most iconic creations—Keeping Up Appearances. Known for penning classics like Last of the Summer Wine and Open All Hours, Clarke’s ability to craft unforgettable characters made Hyacinth Bucket (or “Bouquet,” as she insisted) a household name.
When Clarke conceived the idea for Keeping Up Appearances, he wanted a character who was both comically insufferable and oddly endearing. Hyacinth was that perfect mix—a social climber determined to prove her superiority while constantly being undermined by her less refined relatives.
But while the script was strong, Clarke knew that the actress chosen for the role would make or break the series.
His relief was immense when Patricia Routledge agreed to take on the part. “She was an acting force of nature,” Clarke recalled. “Once she was onboard, Hyacinth took on a life of her own.”
Patricia’s meticulous attention to detail and sharp comedic timing elevated the character beyond Clarke’s original vision, making her one of British television’s most iconic comedy figures.
While Hyacinth was the driving force, Clarke was quick to acknowledge the brilliance of the supporting cast. Clive Swift as her weary husband Richard, Judy Cornwell as her dreamy yet sharp-witted sister Daisy, and Geoffrey Hughes as the beer-loving, unbothered Onslow all played crucial roles in shaping the sitcom’s success.
“The chemistry between the cast was something special,” Clarke noted. “They weren’t just playing characters; they understood exactly how these relationships worked. That’s why audiences connected so deeply with them.”
Hyacinth’s interactions with the upper-class world she longed to be a part of, contrasted with the reality of her boisterous working-class family, created a comedic tension that never grew stale.
Despite the show’s massive popularity, Clarke knew that every sitcom had its natural lifespan. “There comes a point where you start repeating ideas, and that’s when you should stop,” he explained.
Like many great shows before it, Keeping Up Appearances ended while still at the top. Clarke believed this was the right decision, even if fans continued to ask for more. “It’s better to leave people wanting more than to have them wondering why it’s still going.”
Interestingly, despite Hyacinth’s overbearing and often exasperating personality, Clarke admitted that he has a soft spot for her. “Yes, she’s a nightmare,” he laughed, “but I rather like her.”
There’s something undeniably relatable about Hyacinth’s desperate attempts to prove her worth. In a way, she embodies a universal struggle—wanting to be seen as important, respected, and part of something greater.
It’s this underlying humanity, mixed with the absurdity of her antics, that has kept audiences entertained for decades.
Even years after it ended, Keeping Up Appearances remains one of the most beloved sitcoms in British television history. Reruns still attract audiences, proving that Hyacinth’s misguided efforts to impress will never lose their charm.
For Clarke, seeing the show’s continued success is a testament to the timeless nature of good comedy. “It was a joy to write, and it’s a joy to see people still enjoying it.”
