Beloved Actress Glenda Jackson Passes Away at 87
The entertainment world mourns the loss of Glenda Jackson, a beloved actress who graced the stage and screen for over seven decades. On June 15, her agent, Lionel Larner, confirmed her passing, leaving fans and fellow actors grieving. Jackson’s impact on the industry is immeasurable, and tributes to the legendary actress continue to pour in.
Larner shared the heartbreaking news, stating, “Glenda Jackson, two-time Academy Award-winning actress and politician, 87, died peacefully at her home in London this morning after a short illness with her family by her side. Today we lost one of the world’s greatest actresses, and I lost a 50-year best friend.”
Glenda Jackson (1936 — 2023) pic.twitter.com/66ONSKsvwV
— MUBI (@mubi) June 15, 2023
A Lifelong Dedication to Acting
Glenda Jackson’s passion for acting never waned, and she remained committed to her craft until her last days. Her representative revealed that she had recently completed filming for a new movie, “The Great Escaper,” alongside her co-star Michael Caine. Throughout her illustrious career, Jackson accumulated numerous cinema, television, stage, and radio credits, as well as several prestigious awards and accolades.
Michael Caine, who had the privilege of working with her on two occasions, spoke highly of her talent, calling her “one of our best cinema actors.” He cherished the experience of working with her again, echoing the magic they created 50 years ago.
Here’s to Glenda Jackson, legendary actress and scourge of the Seven Seas! In her unforgettable episode of The Muppet Show, she and her merry band of plundering pirates turned our theater into a ship and set out to sea. We’ll always treasure the time we spent with you, Glenda. pic.twitter.com/zQ8cPVc8Jk
— The Muppets (@TheMuppets) June 15, 2023
Unforgettable Performances
Jackson’s body of work included memorable roles in films like “Women in Love” (1970), “Sunday Bloody Sunday” (1971), “A Touch of Class” (1973), “Mary, Queen of Scots” (1971), “Hedda” (1975), “The Incredible Sarah” (1976), and “Hopscotch” (1980). Her performances garnered critical acclaim and left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.
Achieving the Triple Crown of Acting
Among her remarkable achievements was earning the prestigious “Triple Crown of Acting,” a rare feat in the industry. Jackson’s talent and dedication led her to win a Tony Award, an Emmy Award, and two Academy Awards during her illustrious career.
Honors and Recognition
Queen Elizabeth II recognized Jackson’s outstanding contributions to the arts and appointed her as a Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire in 1978. Additionally, she shared her life with Roy Hodges, with whom she was married from 1958 to 1976. They have one child together, Dan Hodges, a prominent British newspaper columnist.
RIP Glenda Jackson
Here she spoke about the impact of Thatcherism in the 1980spic.twitter.com/kK1L8UswRG
— Tides of History (@labour_history) June 15, 2023
A Politician’s Journey
For 23 years, from 1991 to 2015, Glenda Jackson took a break from acting to embark on a political career. She served as a Member of Parliament for Hampstead and Kilburn from 1992 to 2015, showcasing her determination and versatility in various fields.
Tributes Pour In
Tulip Siddiq, who succeeded Jackson as a Member of Parliament for Hampstead and Kilburn, paid a heartfelt tribute to her predecessor, calling her a tough politician, an incredible performer, and a remarkable mentor. Siddiq acknowledged the large void Jackson left in the political landscape.
A Fierce and Fearless Woman
Former Prime Minister Tony Blair remembered Glenda Jackson as a fearless woman who approached her political life with the same passion she dedicated to her acting career. Blair expressed deep sadness upon hearing the news and offered his heartfelt condolences to Dan and all who knew and loved her.
Glenda Jackson’s legacy will continue to shine bright, as her talent, dedication, and impact on both stage and screen have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. She will be dearly missed, but her memory will live on through her remarkable body of work and the profound influence she had on the industry and all who had the privilege of knowing her.