Spoiler Alert:
In a revealing interview, Dame Patricia Routledge reflected on her iconic portrayal of Hyacinth Bucket in Keeping Up Appearances, a beloved BBC sitcom that aired from 1990 to 1995. Despite the show’s conclusion over two decades ago, its impact on viewers remains significant, with Patricia, now 96, recalling the heartfelt letters she receives from fans. These letters, particularly from people who were going through tough times, emphasize how Hyacinth’s comedic escapades helped them navigate their struggles. In a Channel 5 documentary, Keeping Up Appearances: 30 Years of Laughs, Patricia shared a memorable letter from a fan who was at a low point in her life. After watching the show, she wrote to Patricia, expressing how the simple act of watching the sitcom had provided her with much-needed comfort during a difficult period. This experience, Patricia noted, made her work on the show all the more worthwhile.
The sitcom was not only loved by the general public but also gained admiration from high-profile figures, including the Queen Mother and the Queen herself. In the documentary, Patricia revealed that the royal family was among the show’s most devoted fans, with Hyacinth’s character, in particular, being a favorite. The thought of the Queen enjoying her portrayal of the eccentric, social-climbing Hyacinth made Patricia smile, noting that her character would have been flattered beyond words.
Despite the series’ overwhelming popularity, Patricia decided to leave the show at the age of 77. This decision was partly motivated by her belief that the writer had started recycling old ideas, and she didn’t want the show to end on a low note. Reflecting on the wisdom of comedian Ronnie Barker, Patricia explained that he had always chosen to leave a project at its peak, ensuring that audiences were left wanting more. She didn’t want to continue until people were asking, “Is that still on?” instead of eagerly anticipating more episodes. She had other creative ventures to explore, and as an actress, she was keen to take on new roles and tell different stories.
Patricia also shared the moment she first read the script for Keeping Up Appearances. At around 1 a.m., she came across the role of Hyacinth and immediately knew that she had to play the character. The script resonated with her, as she had encountered women like Hyacinth in real life. This deep understanding of the character helped Patricia bring Hyacinth to life, ensuring that she became a memorable figure in British television history.
After Keeping Up Appearances ended, Patricia went on to achieve further success, particularly in the role of Hetty Wainthropp in Hetty Wainthropp Investigates, and on stage as Lady Bracknell in The Importance of Being Earnest. However, it is her portrayal of Hyacinth that remains her most iconic, continuing to capture the imagination of fans worldwide.
Keeping Up Appearances remains a classic in British comedy, admired for its timeless humor, unforgettable characters, and witty portrayal of social aspirations, making it just as cherished by modern audiences as it was when it first aired.
