Jean Marsh, the co-creator of the beloved series Upstairs Downstairs and accomplished actress, has passed away at the age of 90, as confirmed by her agent. Known for her Emmy-winning portrayal of the strong-willed yet compassionate maid Rose Buck in the TV drama set in Edwardian England, Marsh also had notable roles in Hollywood films such as Cleopatra, Willow, and Alfred Hitchcock’s Frenzy, as well as appearances on Doctor Who.
The idea for Upstairs Downstairs originated with Marsh while she was house sitting in France with her friend Dame Eileen Atkins. She co-created the series, which delved into the lives of the Bellamy family and their servants living below them, alongside John Hawkesworth and John Whitney. The show became a hit in the 1970s, receiving both critical acclaim and popularity, especially in the United States where it was broadcast on PBS.
Marsh’s impact extended beyond Upstairs Downstairs, as she made appearances in other TV shows like The Twilight Zone and Grantchester, and also took on roles in various Shakespeare and George Bernard Shaw plays on stage. Married to Dr. Who actor Jon Pertwee for five years, she later co-created the BBC drama The House of Elliott in 1991. Marsh’s contributions to the entertainment industry were recognized in 2012 when she was made an Officer of the British Empire (OBE) for her services to drama.
In a touching tribute, filmmaker Michael Lindsay-Hogg remembered Marsh as a wise, funny, and kind-hearted individual who was not only talented as an actress and writer but also deeply empathetic. As Marsh’s friend for over four decades, Lindsay-Hogg highlighted her positive impact on those around her, stating that she was cherished by everyone who had the pleasure of meeting her
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