Caffeinated Politics

As we face hourly reminders of why we must fight for our democracy we are also reminded, perhaps even subconsciously, why we must have places of mental respite and abundant humor. One of those ever-ready smile-educing options for James and myself not only over the past decade, but for the 25 years we have been a couple, is due to the comic brilliance of Dame Patricia Routledge. Her portrayal of Hyacinth Bucket (pronounced “Bouquet,” of course) in Keeping Up Appearances, even after multiple viewings of each episode, remains a showcase for a tour de force of comedic timing and real theatrical flair.

Today, sadly, Patricia Routledge passed away in her sleep at the age of 96. I can write about how much she was loved in this home for her comic precision, the physical nature of her performances, along with the elegance her character was always striving for in each episode. What we loved about her was what allowed her to be so beloved world-wide.

We have often said when watching Routledge play Hyacinth that it was not as if an actress was playing a part, but that Routledge was actually Hyacinth. What slayed us watching her performances was whether teetering on a garden path in heels or issuing imperious phone calls to the vicar, her physicality was as much a part of the moment as was her expressive voice. One that I need not remind readers was akin to her own continuous musical instrument.

She was Born in Tranmere, Cheshire and began her career on the stage, earning a Tony Award and an Olivier Award long before she became a household name for people like James and myself. But it was television that immortalized her. From 1990 to 1995, Keeping Up Appearances became one of the BBC’s most exported programs, adored not just in Britain but across the globe. (James and I subscribe to Brit Box and her brand of comic acting remains a favorite.)

Both in interviews she gave and in recollections from others who knew her, she was modest about her fame. She continued performing well into her later years, and in 2017, was made a Dame by Queen Elizabeth II for her contributions to entertainment and charity.

Patricia Routledge made millions laugh including two guys on the Madison isthmus. I can say with absolute certainty she gave the world a character who will never fade. There will never be a time when someone is not watching Hyacinth Bucket, a woman who insisted on elegance, demanded respect, and somehow made us love her all the more for it.

Thank you Patricia, for being a brilliant actress and comedian.

Godspeed.