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The Acting Dynasty: Rupert Penry-Jones and His Family’s Storied Career in British Television
Rupert Penry-Jones, a prominent actor currently starring in the Channel 5 drama The Feud, is not the only celebrated artist in his family. While his marriage to acclaimed actress Dervla Kirwan, 53, recognized for her performances in Ballykissangel, Goodnight Sweetheart, and Doctor Who, is widely known, the Penry-Jones lineage boasts further notable figures in the realm of acting. Rupert and his brother both pursued careers in the performing arts, following in the footsteps of their parents.
A Theatrical Lineage: Rupert and Laurence Penry-Jones
The 54-year-old Whitechapel star, Rupert Penry-Jones, is the offspring of Welsh actor Peter Penry-Jones and English actress Angela Thorne, highlighting a rich family history in the entertainment industry. His father, Peter Penry-Jones, who passed away at the age of 70 in 2009 due to bowel cancer, had a distinguished career, including collaborations with the iconic Laurence Olivier at The National Theatre. His television credits encompassed appearances in notable series such as Colditz, The Professionals, To The Manor Born, Bergerac, Howards’ Way, Kavanagh QC, and Midsomer Murders.
Angela Thorne: A National Treasure of the British Screen
Angela Thorne, Rupert’s mother, who died at her Battersea home on June 16, 2023, at 84, remains a cherished figure in British television history. Her portrayal of Marjory Frobisher in the BBC sitcom classic To the Manor Born, a role she embodied from 1979 to 1981 and revisited for a special in 2007, solidified her status as a national treasure. Beyond this iconic role, Angela Thorne amassed an impressive body of work.
Stage and Screen Acclaim: Beyond Sitcoms
In theatre, her celebrated depiction of Margaret Thatcher in Anyone for Denis? earned her a nomination for Best Comedy Performance at the 1981 Laurence Olivier Awards. She reprised this role in a televised adaptation of the stage production. Her television repertoire also includes appearances in acclaimed programs like The Good Life, where she shared the screen with her future To The Manor Born co-star Penelope Keith, as well as Midsomer Murders, Foyle’s War, and Heartbeat.
Laurence Penry-Jones and Polly Walker: Expanding the Family’s Acting Footprint
Rupert’s brother, Laurence Penry-Jones, 48, also embarked on an acting career, becoming recognizable to audiences through his roles in series such as Waking the Dead and Doctors. He has since transitioned to public service as an ambulance driver. His wife, Polly Walker, 58, is also a successful actress, widely known for her portrayal of Lady Portia Featherington in the Netflix hit Bridgerton, alongside a substantial list of acting credits. Walker garnered a Golden Globe Award nomination for her performance in the drama series Rome, and BBC viewers may recall her from the drama Prisoners’ Wives and her part in Line of Duty.
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