Pauline Collins, the beloved British actress celebrated for her iconic role in Shirley Valentine, has died at the age of 85. Following Collin’s passing, her family has issued a formal statement, where they noted that she had a “peaceful” death.
Oscar-nominated Pauline Collins dies after suffering from Parkinson’s disease
On November 6, Pauline Collins died “peacefully” at her home in London at the age of 85, per BBC.
Later, her family remembered Collins’ both personal and professional life in their statement: “Pauline was so many things to so many people, playing a variety of roles in her life. A bright, sparky, witty presence on stage and screen. Her illustrious career saw her play politicians, mothers and queens,” they said in the statement.
They added, “She will always be remembered as the iconic, strong-willed, vivacious and wise Shirley Valentine – a role that she made all her own.” Addressing her personal life, they shared that Collins was a “loving mum,” a “wonderful grandma and great-grandma.” She was also a “life-long love” for her husband, actor John Alderton.
Their statement then confirmed Collins’ peaceful death: “She could not have had a more peaceful goodbye. We hope you will remember her at the height of her powers; so joyful and full of energy.”
Later, Alderton said in a statement that Collins was a “remarkable star” and someone who “wanted everyone to be special.”
While Collins suffered from Parkinson’s disease for a long time, her family never mentioned the exact cause of death. She was last seen in the 2017 road trip-comedy The Time of Their Lives. But before that, she had an incredible and long-standing career.
The actress most notably gained recognition for her role as Shirley Valentine, both on stage and in film. The story centered on the titular character, a neglected middle-aged Liverpudlian housewife. She goes on a self-discovery trip after her friend, Jane, wins a ticket for two to Greece.
In 1988, Collins first starred as Shirley Valentine in the one-woman stage play of the same name in London, performing all characters herself. She reprised her role on Broadway in 1989 and again in the film version later that year. Over the years, Collins had earned several accolades for her role, including the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actress, the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play, and an Oscar for the film, among a long list of achievements.
