‘Shirley Valentine’ Star Dies at 85 After Battle with Parkinson’s Disease

Pauline Collins, the beloved actress best known for her role in Shirley Valentine, has passed away at the age of 85. Her family confirmed that she died “peacefully” at a care home in London, surrounded by her loved ones. Collins had been living with Parkinson’s disease for several years.

Her family shared in a statement, “Pauline died peacefully aged 85 in her London care home surrounded by her family having had Parkinson’s disease for several years.”

Collins became a global name after starring in the 1989 film Shirley Valentine, directed by Lewis Gilbert and based on Willy Russell’s popular stage play.

In the movie, she played Shirley, a middle-aged woman who feels stuck in her marriage and decides to rediscover herself during a trip to Greece. Her touching and funny performance earned her wide praise and major awards, including a Golden Globe and a BAFTA for Best Actress. She also received an Academy Award nomination for the role in 1990.

Before her big-screen success, Collins had already built a strong reputation in British television and theatre. She rose to fame in the 1970s for her role as Sarah Moffat in the acclaimed TV drama Upstairs, Downstairs. The character became so popular that it led to a spin-off series, Thomas & Sarah, where she starred alongside her husband, actor John Alderton.

Throughout her long career, Collins appeared in many films and television shows, showing her range as both a dramatic and comedic actress.

Her film credits include Paradise Road, City of Joy, and Quartet, while her television work featured appearances in Bleak House, Doctor Who, and The Ambassador. Known for her warmth and relatability, she brought honesty and charm to every role she played.

Pauline Collins was married to John Alderton for over five decades, and the couple often worked together on stage and screen. Their partnership was one of the most admired in British entertainment.

Her role as Shirley Valentine remains her most iconic. The film struck a chord with audiences around the world, celebrating independence, self-discovery, and second chances. It continues to be loved decades later, largely because of Collins’s heartfelt and genuine performance.

Collins leaves behind a rich legacy in British cinema and television. Her work touched generations, and her contribution to the arts will not be forgotten.

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