Pauline Collins dies aged 85: Shirley Valentine star passes away ‘peacefully’ after battle with Parkinson’s disease

Shirley Valentine actor Pauline Collins has died at the age of 85 after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Her family said the actress passed away ‘peacefully’ at her care home in London, surrounded by her family, who had endured the illness for several years.

In a statement published on Sunday and revealed on Thursday evening, her family said: ‘Pauline meant so much to so many people who played various roles in her life.

‘A bright, sparkling, witty presence on stage and screen. In his illustrious career, he has played tricks on politicians, mothers and queens.

‘She will always be remembered as the iconic, strong-willed, vibrant and wise Shirley Valentine; It’s a role he makes entirely his own.

‘We were familiar with all these parts of him because his magic was present in each of them.

‘But more than anything, she was our loving mother, wonderful grandmother and great-grandmother. Warm, funny, generous, thoughtful, wise; He was always with us. And she was John’s lifelong love. A partner, collaborator and spouse of 56 years.

‘We especially want to thank his caregivers: the angels who cared for him with dignity, compassion and, most importantly, love. There couldn’t be a more peaceful farewell than this.

‘We hope you will remember him at the height of his powers; very cheerful and full of energy; and give us the space and privacy to consider life without him.’

Pauline was married to actor John Alderton, 84, with whom she frequently appeared on stage and screen.

The pair were one of Britain’s best-known acting couples, performing together in Upstairs, Downstairs and Thomas and Sarah.

They had three children: Nicholas, Kate and Richard.

Born in Devon and raised in Wallasey, Cheshire, Pauline trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama after working briefly as a teacher.

Her first television success came in the BBC comedy series The Liver Birds, before her breakthrough role in Shirley Valentine made her an international star.

The 1989 film, based on Willy Russell’s play, earned her a Best Actress nomination at the Academy Awards and a Golden Globe award for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical.

The film followed the life of a Liverpool housewife who reinvents herself on a trip to Greece, a performance that became one of the defining portrayals of British cinema in the 1980s.

Pauline’s extensive career also included performances in No Sex Please, We’re British, Wodehouse Playhouse, Forever Green and The Time of Their Lives.

His stage work has spanned decades, with roles in London’s West End and regional theater productions.

He continued acting later in his life; Albert Nobbs has appeared in film and television projects such as The Royale Family and The Last Detective.

Pauline is survived by her husband John, their children and grandchildren.