Patricia Routledge's co-stars and fans pay tribute as Keeping Up Appearances icon dies

Tributes have flooded in for Keeping Up Appearances icon Dame Patricia Routledge, who has died at the age of 96. The actress - best known for playing the iconic Hyacinth Bucket in the legendary BBC sitcom died on Friday.

A statement from Patricia's agent announced her sad death: "We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of Dame Patricia Routledge, who died peacefully in her sleep this morning surrounded by love.

"Even at 96 years old, Dame Patricia’s passion for her work and for connecting with live audiences never waned, just as new generations of audiences have continued to find her through her beloved television roles. She will be dearly missed by those closest to her and by her devoted admirers around the world."

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Emmerdale star Lisa Riley - who plays Mandy Dingle - was one of the first to pay tribute to her former co-star. In a lengthy post, she shared: "REST IN PEACE, Dear Dame Pat, you taught me so so much when we worked together, I was only 14 years old, playing your little novice super sleuth trouble maker.

"I still tell all the stories from those cold filming days in Haslingden, Lancashire. You’ve kept the nation so happy with your comedic timing over the years-now all the angels are laughing. What a career you’ve had."

Natalie Ann Jamieson, who also starred in Emmerdale, added: "Very said, truly top of her game, genius actress," whilst Laura Norton - who plays Kerry Wyatt - branded Patricia a "genius".

William Hanson, who is the host of an official fan podcast for the sitcom, shared: "Dame Patricia Routledge, 1929 - 2025. Now off to the candlelight supper in the sky. Thank you for everything. Hyacinth’s final words in Keeping Up Appearances seem fitting."

The BBC’s director of comedy Jon Petrie also paid tribute. He shared: "We are so sad to hear of the passing of Dame Patricia Routledge. She was an actor of remarkable range, but her portrayal of Hyacinth Bucket in Keeping Up Appearances has to be one of the most iconic performances in British comedy.

"She took a character on the page and gave her such truth, precision and warmth that Hyacinth became part of the national conversation; instantly recognisable, endlessly quotable, and loved around the world. Whatever she did, she brought impeccable craft and in doing so inspired generations of writers, performers and audiences.

"Dame Patricia made millions laugh and left a legacy that will always be remembered with gratitude and admiration."

Fans have also continued to pay tribute, including one who wrote: "The fabulous Patricia Routledge who brought us the marvellous Kitty in the 80’s and the hilarious social climber Hyacinth Bucket in the 90’s has sadly passed away. What a woman! May she RIP."

Another added: "RIP Patricia Routledge. She has departed for the great Candlelight Supper in the sky."

Patricia had no children and decided not to marry, something which she says is because of her desire to do well with her career. She said: "I didn’t make a decision not to be married and not to be a mother - life just turned out like that because my involvement with acting was so total.

"Now I think it’s a pity I didn’t have children. But I’m not sure you can have a career and a family and do both satisfactorily. I always knew, deep down, that everything has a cost."

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