The Hyacinth Bucket actress was ‘surrounded by love’ when she died

ame Patricia Routledge, famed for playing Hyacinth Bucket in Keeping Up Appearances, has died.

The actress starred as the snobby, middle-classed character in the hit BBC sitcom during the 1990s.

But it has now been confirmed Patricia has died, aged 96.

Keeping Up Appearances star Patricia Routledge has died age 96 (Credit: Cover Images)

Patricia’s agent said in a statement: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of Dame Patricia Routledge, who died peacefully in her sleep this morning surrounded by love.

“Even at 96 years old, Dame Patricia’s passion for her work and for connecting with live audiences never waned, just as new generations of audiences have continued to find her through her beloved television roles.

“She will be dearly missed by those closest to her and by her devoted admirers around the world.”

Tributes for Patricia

Tributes for Patricia have begun pouring in following her death. Writing on X, formerly known as Twitter, one fan said: “Oh no! Dame Patricia Routledge has died #HyacinthBucket.” Another added: “Awwww RIP Patricia Routledge aka Mrs Bucket! It’s…..Bouquet !!”

A third also paid reference to Hyacinth’s on-screen husband Richard, played by the late Clive Smith. They posted: “RICHARD, RICHARD, RICHARD. RIP Dame Patricia Routledge. #damepat #keepingupappearances.”

The actress was made a Dame in 2017 (Credit: Shutterstock)

Patricia’s career highlights

Patricia is best known for her role as Hyacinth. She played the character in Keeping Up Appearances from 1990 to 1995. Even Patricia described the character as “grotesque”.

The actress had previously built a successful career on stage and screen before landing the part. She had starred in Coronation Street and, later, the series Talking Heads. Patricia also starred in several stage shows on New York’s broadway.

In 1992, she was announced as BBC Television Personality of the Year. The following year, Patricia was awarded an MBE by The Queen. She became a Dame in 2017 for her services to entertainment and charity.

Patricia did not marry and she did not have any children.