Dame Joan Plowright dead at 95 as tributes paid to Oscar-nominated actress and widow of Laurence Olivier

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Renowned actress Dame Joan Plowright has passed away at the age of 95, her family has announced.

The Oscar-nominated British star, who was married to the late Lord Laurence Olivier, was celebrated for her outstanding performances in films such as Stalin, for which she won a Golden Globe award, and Enchanted April, which earned her an Academy Award nomination.

Dame Joan also appeared in Love You To Death alongside River Phoenix and had a distinguished career in the West End and on Broadway before achieving international success in film. A statement from her family read: "It is with great sadness that the family of Dame Joan Plowright, the Lady Olivier, inform you that she passed away peacefully on 16 January 2025 surrounded by her family at Denville Hall at the glorious age of 95."

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"Her brilliant career will be remembered by many, her wonderful being always cherished by her children Richard, Tamsin and Julie-Kate, their families and Joan’s many friends."

"We are deeply grateful for all those who helped care for her in her last years."

Dame Joan's marriage to Lord Olivier in 1961 was a highly publicised event, and they remained together until his passing in 1989 at the age of 82.

Throughout his struggles with chronic illnesses, including cancer, Dame Joan dedicated herself to caring for him.

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