Pauline Collins, the beloved British actress famous for her portrayal of Shirley Valentine, has passed away at the age of 85. She died peacefully in a care home in London on Thursday, surrounded by her family, after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.
What Happened
Pauline Collins, renowned for her iconic role in Shirley Valentine, died in her sleep on November 6, 2025, following a lengthy struggle with Parkinson’s disease. The BBC reported that Collins passed away in a care home, with her family by her side.
Her family shared a heartfelt statement with the BBC, remembering her as “so many things to so many people” – a vibrant, witty, and strong-willed presence both on stage and screen. “Her illustrious career saw her play politicians, mothers, and queens,” the statement read. “She will always be remembered as the iconic, strong-willed, vivacious and wise Shirley Valentine – a role that she made all her own.”
A Look Back at Pauline Collins’ Career
Born in Exmouth, Devon, Collins trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London before embarking on a remarkable career that spanned decades. She initially worked as a teacher before turning her attention to acting. In 1962, she made her West End debut in Passion Flower Hotel, and by 1966, she secured her first film role in Secrets of a Windmill Girl.
Her acting career flourished in television and film, with notable roles including Samantha Briggs in Doctor Who‘s The Faceless Ones (1967) and Sarah in the critically acclaimed British series Upstairs, Downstairs in the 1970s.
However, it was in 1988 that Collins truly became a household name. She starred in the one-woman play Shirley Valentine, a role she later reprised on Broadway and in the 1989 film adaptation. In the role of a bored housewife who finds herself on a life-changing journey in Greece, Collins earned widespread acclaim, receiving an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress and winning the Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical.
Following Shirley Valentine, Collins continued to appear in various projects, including the ITV series Forever Green in the early ’90s, created by Terence Brady and Charlotte Bingham.
Honours and Legacy
Collins’ contributions to drama were formally recognized when she was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2001 Birthday Honours for services to drama.
Throughout her life and career, Collins touched the hearts of many, both with her incredible talent and with her warmth, wit, and resilience. She will be forever remembered for her iconic roles, particularly as Shirley Valentine, which cemented her place in the hearts of audiences worldwide.
Survived by Family
Pauline Collins is survived by her husband, actor John Alderton, her three children—Nicholas, Kate, and Richard—and her extended family. Her legacy will live on through her unforgettable performances and the joy she brought to those who knew her and admired her work.
Closing line
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
