Dame Joan Plowright Passes at 94; Theaters to Dim Lights in Tribute
January 17, 2025
She cared for Olivier through his illnesses until his death in 1989, after which she found renewed success in Hollywood with films like 'Avalon' and 'Enchanted April.'
Despite facing challenges due to deteriorating vision from macular degeneration, she continued to act until her retirement in 2014.
Her extensive filmography includes notable works such as '101 Dalmatians,' 'Tea with Mussolini,' and 'Enchanted April,' for which she received an Academy Award nomination.
Plowright often reflected on her career with appreciation, describing the magic she felt at the beginning of each performance.
Dame Joan Plowright, a celebrated actress known for her distinguished career in theater, film, and television, passed away at Denville Hall, a retirement home for actors in southern England, surrounded by loved ones.
Plowright made a brief return to the screen in 2018, participating in the documentary 'Tea with the Dames,' alongside fellow actresses Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, and Eileen Atkins.
In her later years, she cherished her time in Sussex, enjoying visits from family and friends filled with laughter and cherished memories.
In tribute to her legacy, theaters across London's West End will dim their lights for two minutes at 7 p.m. on January 21, 2025.
Her family expressed pride in her accomplishments and requested privacy during this difficult time.
In recognition of her significant contributions to the arts, she was appointed Dame Commander of the British Empire by Queen Elizabeth II in 2004.
Throughout her life, Plowright became a guardian of her late husband Laurence Olivier's legacy, defending him in the media and curating his letters.
While her marriage to Olivier brought her fame, it also overshadowed her achievements until she was honored with the Dame title.
Summary based on 24 sources
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Sources

The Guardian • Jan 17, 2025
Joan Plowright, celebrated star of stage and screen, dies aged 95
BBC News • Jan 17, 2025
Dame Joan Plowright: Acting legend dies at 95
CNN • Jan 17, 2025
Joan Plowright, Tony-winning actress, dead at 95 | CNN
NBC News • Jan 17, 2025
Joan Plowright, Tony-winning actor and widow of Laurence Olivier, dies at 95