Acclaimed Actress Jane Lapotaire Dies at 81
Renowned stage and screen actress Jane Lapotaire, celebrated for her captivating performances, has passed away at the age of 81. The news of her death was confirmed on Thursday by The Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC), where she held the esteemed position of Honorary Associate Artist.
Lapotaire, a formidable talent whose career spanned decades, was most recently recognised by contemporary audiences for her role as Princess Alice of Battenberg, the mother of Prince Philip, in the popular Netflix series The Crown. Her portrayal in the third season of the royal drama brought her work to a new generation of viewers.
The Royal Shakespeare Company released a statement expressing their profound sadness: “We are saddened to hear of the death of RSC Honorary Associate Artist, Jane Lapotaire. A truly brilliant actress, Jane joined the RSC in 1974 to play Viola in Twelfth Night.”
Her early career with the RSC was marked by significant success. A few years after joining, she took on the demanding title role in Pam Gems’ production of Piaf, a performance that earned her both Olivier and TONY Best Actress awards, cementing her status as a leading lady.
Throughout her extensive career, Lapotaire graced the stage in numerous iconic roles. In 1992, she delivered a powerful performance as Gertrude in Adrian Noble’s production of Hamlet, starring opposite Kenneth Branagh. Her final two engagements with the RSC were in 2013, where she played the Duchess of Gloucester in Greg Doran’s Richard II, sharing the stage with David Tennant, and in 2015, she took on the role of Queen Isobel in Henry V, again directed by Doran. The RSC extended their heartfelt condolences to Lapotaire’s family and friends.
A Versatile Career Beyond The Crown
While her role in The Crown introduced her to a new audience, Jane Lapotaire’s career was rich with diverse and memorable performances across various mediums. In 1977, she achieved widespread television fame for her compelling portrayal of the pioneering scientist Marie Curie in the BBC miniseries of the same name.
Modern viewers might also recall her appearance in the fifth season of the beloved period drama Downton Abbey, where she played Princess Irina Kuragin, further showcasing her versatility in historical roles.
Overcoming Adversity and Inspiring Others
Lapotaire’s professional journey was not without its challenges. In 2000, her career was significantly interrupted when she suffered a cerebral hemorrhage, necessitating urgent surgery. Following a month-long stay in intensive care, the indomitable actress channelled her harrowing health ordeal into an award-winning memoir. Titled Time Out of Mind, the book, published in 2004, offered a poignant and powerful account of her experience, resonating with readers and critics alike.
Tributes from Fans and Colleagues
The news of Jane Lapotaire’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and those who had the privilege of witnessing her talent firsthand. Social media platforms were abuzz with heartfelt messages commemorating her contributions to the arts.
One fan shared a deeply personal memory: “‘Gosh! A phenomenal actor. I saw her in the lead role in Saint Joan at York Theatre Royal back in 1985 when I was only 14. It was one of my first visits to the theatre, but had stuck in my mind. Probably instrumental in a lifelong love of the arts. RIP.'” This sentiment highlights the profound impact Lapotaire had on inspiring a passion for theatre in younger generations.
Another admirer fondly recalled her performance as Lady Macbeth: “Wonderful actor. I remember being captivated by her performance as Lady Macbeth in a BBC Shakespeare film opposite Nicol Williamson, back in the misty moments of the 1980s. Never forgotten that. I pretty much fell in love with theatre on the spot.” Such recollections underscore the lasting impression her powerful stage presence left on audiences.
Jane Lapotaire is survived by her son, screenwriter Rowan Joffe, aged 53, whom she shared with her former husband, acclaimed movie director Roland Joffe. Her legacy as a brilliant and resilient artist will undoubtedly continue to inspire for years to come.
