Patricia Routledge Reflects on Enduring Legacy of Hyacinth Bucket
Dame Patricia Routledge has spoken candidly about her renowned portrayal of Hyacinth Bucket in the much-loved BBC sitcom, Keeping Up Appearances. The series, which featured Clive Swift, Geoffrey Hughes, and Judy Cornwell, concluded in 1995 but maintains a significant impact on its audience.
Impact on Viewers
The 96-year-old actress explained how the comedy “made a great difference” to viewers, particularly those experiencing challenging times. Speaking in the Channel 5 documentary, Keeping Up Appearances: 30 Years of Laughs, she noted the show’s profound effect.
Fan Letters and Personal Connection
Routledge recounted the depth of audience appreciation, stating: “There are individuals who primarily associate me with Keeping Up Appearances, but it undeniably had a substantial positive effect, and I receive the most wonderful correspondence. I am deeply appreciative of this, as it highlights the significance of bringing happiness to people.”
She shared an anecdote illustrating the show’s comfort: “I recall a touching letter from a lady who felt utterly despondent. She described making a cup of tea, turning on the television, and finding me there. She conveyed that it assisted her in navigating a very difficult period. Experiences like this make it all truly meaningful.”
Royal Admiration
The actress also revealed that Keeping Up Appearances garnered admiration from prominent figures, including members of the Royal Family and religious leaders.
Queen Mother’s Appreciation
In the documentary, she disclosed: “We were among the Queen Mother’s favourite sitcoms, which was delightful. The Queen also enjoyed it. Hyacinth herself would have been immeasurably flattered, and rightly so.”
Decision to Conclude “Keeping Up Appearances”
Patricia Routledge decided to conclude the sitcom at the age of 77, a decision met with disappointment by the BBC.
Creative Timing and Ronnie Barker’s Influence
Explaining her rationale in BBC Four’s Patricia Routledge Remembers, she stated: “I felt the writer was starting to reuse previous concepts. Furthermore, recalling the esteemed Ronnie Barker, he consistently concluded projects at their peak, leaving audiences wanting more, rather than wondering about its continuation.”
“That is the ideal position to be in, and I had other artistic avenues to pursue. I am an actress, and I desired to explore the narratives of other characters.”
Character Inspiration and Subsequent Roles
Patricia Routledge also described what initially attracted her to the character of Hyacinth, stating her immediate recognition of the persona.
Hyacinth’s Origin
She recounted: “I briefly looked at the script at one o’clock in the morning, read it straight through, and Hyacinth vividly emerged from the pages. I recognised that woman; I knew several women like that,” she added with amusement.
Post-“Appearances” Career
Following the series’ conclusion, Routledge continued to excel in significant roles, including Hetty Wainthropp in the BBC’s Hetty Wainthropp Investigates and on stage as Lady Bracknell in The Importance of Being Earnest.