‘Shirley Valentine’ Star Dies at 85 After Battle with Parkinson’s Disease

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Pauline Collins, the actress famous for playing Shirley Valentine, has died at the age of 85. Her family said she passed away peacefully in a London care home, with her family by her side. She had been living with Parkinson’s disease for several years.

I was so saddened to hear about Pauline’s passing. Her family shared that she died peacefully at her London care home, surrounded by loved ones. She was 85, and had been living with Parkinson’s for several years. It’s just heartbreaking, but a relief to know she was comfortable and with family at the end.

I’ll never forget seeing Pauline Collins in Shirley Valentine back in 1989! It really launched her internationally. The film, directed by Lewis Gilbert, was adapted from Willy Russell’s incredibly popular stage play, and it was just brilliant seeing her bring that character to life on the big screen.

In the film, she portrayed Shirley, a woman in her forties who feels unfulfilled in her marriage and embarks on a journey to Greece to find herself. Her performance was both heartwarming and humorous, earning her significant acclaim and major awards, including a Golden Globe and a BAFTA for Best Actress. She was also nominated for an Academy Award in 1990 for her work in the role.

Before becoming a movie star, Collins was already well-known in British TV and theatre. She first gained recognition in the 1970s playing Sarah Moffat in the popular drama Upstairs, Downstairs. The character was so beloved that it led to a spin-off show, Thomas & Sarah, which starred Collins and her husband, actor John Alderton.

Over her extensive career, Joan Collins acted in numerous movies and TV series, proving her ability to excel in both serious and funny roles.

She appeared in films like Paradise Road, City of Joy, and Quartet, and on television in shows such as Bleak House, Doctor Who, and The Ambassador. She was known for being warm and approachable, and she brought a genuine and charming quality to all of her performances.

Pauline Collins and John Alderton shared a marriage and working relationship that lasted for more than fifty years. They were a highly respected duo in the world of British entertainment.

She’s best known for playing Shirley Valentine in a film that deeply resonated with viewers worldwide. The movie’s message of finding freedom, understanding yourself, and getting another opportunity at happiness continues to connect with people today, and that’s largely thanks to her honest and moving performance.

Collins made a lasting impact on British film and television. Her work resonated with audiences across generations and will continue to be remembered for years to come.

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2025-11-06 21:44