It’s been 30 years since Keeping Up Appearances wrapped up, and the cast has faced a series of unfortunate events since the beloved show ended. The sitcom, which aired from 1990 to 1995, brought millions of viewers laughter over five seasons, following the ridiculous, yet endearing, attempts of Hyacinth Bucket to climb the social ladder. The show featured a memorable ensemble, with Dame Patricia Routledge playing the iconic, pretentious Hyacinth, and Clive Swift portraying her long-suffering husband, Richard. Together, they created one of the most unforgettable pairs in British television history.

Since the final curtain call, the cast has tragically experienced a series of devastating losses. Dame Patricia, now 96, has been largely retired from acting, though she remains a revered figure in the entertainment world. Having enjoyed a glittering career that included roles in Hetty Wainthropp Investigates and Talking Heads, she was even named a Dame in 2017 for her contributions to the arts and charity. However, despite her achievements, she’s witnessed the untimely deaths of several of her co-stars.

Clive Swift, who portrayed the mild-mannered Richard, passed away in 2019 at the age of 82 after a brief illness. His death was a heartbreaking blow to those who admired his wit and charm, both on and off screen. The loss was especially poignant for fans who had watched him for years as the devoted husband to Hyacinth’s chaotic ambition.

Shirley Stelfox, who was originally cast as Rose, Hyacinth’s flirtatious and sex-obsessed sister, also tragically passed away in 2015 after being diagnosed with cancer. She was 74. Although she only appeared in the first series, her role left an indelible mark on the show, and her later roles in Brookside and EastEnders cemented her as a beloved figure in British soap operas.

Mary Miller, who replaced Stelfox as Rose from the second series onward, passed away in 1998 at just 62 from ovarian cancer, shortly after leaving her mark on the series. Her death came as a sad shock to those who knew her extensive theater work and her portrayal of Rose’s wild behavior.

Geoffrey Hughes, who brought to life the lovable but lazy Onslow, was another tragic loss. After battling prostate cancer for years, Hughes passed away in 2012 at the age of 68. He had a diverse career beyond Keeping Up Appearances, starring in The Royle Family and Heartbeat, but his portrayal of Onslow remains his most beloved role.

Judy Cornwell, who played Daisy, Onslow’s wife, is now 85 and rarely seen on screen. She has shifted her focus to writing, having published several books over the years. Though she remains one of the few surviving members of the cast, her absence from public life has been notable, especially after so many of her colleagues have passed on.

These losses have cast a shadow over the legacy of Keeping Up Appearances, a show that, despite its comedic premise, has been marked by a series of personal tragedies. The curse of the show’s cast seems inescapable, and while the show’s popularity remains strong, the heartache experienced by its stars is a bittersweet reminder of how fleeting success can be.