Dame Joan Plowright, Oscar Nominee and Widow of Laurence Olivier, Dies at 95

Dame Joan Plowright, the esteemed British acting legend, has died at the age of 95. Her family reported that she passed away peacefully on January 16, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. This news was shared with sadness by the BBC and Sky News.

Married to fellow acting icon Lord Laurence Olivier from 1961 until his death in 1989, Plowright enjoyed a magnificent career that spanned over seven decades. According to her family statement, she retired due to blindness. The statement expressed sorrow and emphasized her impressive and creative life.

Dame Joan was recognized as one of Britain’s most honored screen stars. In 2003, she was named a Dame by Queen Elizabeth. Plowright received Golden Globe awards for her roles in the TV adaptations of "Stalin" and "Enchanted April," the latter also earning her an Academy Award nomination. She captured a Tony Award for her performance in "A Taste of Honey" on Broadway. Additionally, she acted in notable films such as "The Dressmaker" and "Tea with Mussolini" in the 1980s and 1990s.

Her family shared how she cherished the last decade of her life in Sussex, surrounded by friends and family, filled with joy and treasured memories. They expressed immense pride in her accomplishments as a loving person who faced her challenges with resilience and determination.

The statement concluded with a heartfelt message: "Rest in peace, Joan."

Plowright’s connection with Olivier began in 1957 when she played his daughter in "The Entertainer." She is survived by her loving family, including Tamsin, Wilf, and step-granddaughter Kaya, among others.

In 2018, she joined fellow Dames Maggie Smith and Judi Dench in "Tea with the Dames," which humorously reflected on their remarkable careers.

In honor of Dame Joan Plowright, the Society of London Theaters has announced that all West End theaters will dim their lights at 7 p.m. on January 21, 2025.

Earlier, SSP wrote that David Lynch passed away at the age of 78.