Pauline Collins, the beloved British actress who earned worldwide acclaim for her portrayal of a middle-aged housewife seeking adventure in “Shirley Valentine,” died on Nov. 5, 2025, at a London care home in Highgate. Her death was announced the following day. She was 85.

Collins died peacefully, surrounded by her family, after living with Parkinson’s disease for several years, according to relatives. Born September 3, 1940, in Exmouth, Devon, England, she became one of Britain’s most cherished performers through a career spanning more than five decades on stage and screen.

Her family said in a statement that Collins was “a bright, sparky, witty presence on stage and screen” whose illustrious career saw her play politicians, mothers, and queens. They added she “will always be remembered as the iconic, strong-willed, vivacious and wise Shirley Valentine — a role that she made all her own.”

Collins achieved her greatest triumph with “Shirley Valentine,” first originating the role in the 1988 West End production at the Vaudeville Theatre. Her performance earned her the Olivier Award for best actress that year. She then brought the character to Broadway in 1989, winning the Tony Award for best actress in a play.

In her Tony acceptance speech, Collins reflected on the opportunity: “What’s marvelous about being here is it’s proof that miracles can happen at any time in our lives, even when you’re getting on a bit. It means there’s hope and you must all continue to dream your dreams, because they’ll come true.”

The 1989 film version of “Shirley Valentine” brought Collins international recognition and earned her an Academy Award nomination for best actress in 1990. She won the Golden Globe for best actress for the role, cementing her status as a major talent. The story of a bored Liverpool housewife who rediscovers herself during a Greek holiday resonated with audiences worldwide.

Collins married fellow actor John Alderton in 1969, and the couple worked together frequently throughout their careers. They appeared together in the popular ITV series “Upstairs, Downstairs” from 1971 to 1973, where Collins played the maid Sarah opposite Alderton’s chauffeur Thomas. The role brought Collins widespread recognition in British television.

Alderton issued a separate statement describing his wife as a remarkable star. He said he had the great fortune to work with her more than any other actor in their many television series, films and stage shows together. He noted that she wanted everyone to be special and did this by never saying “Look at me,” adding that it was no wonder that she was voted the nation’s sweetheart in the 1970s.

The couple had three children: Nicholas, Kate and Richard. Alderton praised Collins’ greatest performance as his wife and mother to their children.

Collins’ later career included memorable roles in several notable films. She appeared in the 2012 film “Quartet” alongside Maggie Smith, playing a retired opera singer. The film, directed by Dustin Hoffman, showcased Collins’ ability to bring depth and humanity to her characters well into her later years.

Her extensive television work included various series and films with Alderton. Beyond “Upstairs, Downstairs,” Collins built a reputation as a versatile performer capable of both dramatic and comedic roles. Her warmth and authenticity on screen made her a favorite among British audiences for generations.

In recognition of her contributions to British drama, Collins was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 2001. The honor acknowledged her decades of service to the performing arts and her impact on British cultural life.

Collins’ family thanked her carers for looking after her with dignity, compassion and love during her final years. They noted she could not have had a more peaceful goodbye and asked that she be remembered at the height of her powers, joyful and full of energy.

The family requested privacy as they contemplate life without her. They also noted that anyone wishing to donate in Collins’ memory could make a contribution to Parkinson’s UK in her honor.

Collins is survived by her husband, John Alderton, their three children, and her extended family. She is also survived by her eldest daughter, Louise Rohr, whom she placed for adoption in 1964—a choice she later described in her memoir, “Letter To Louise,” as deeply painful and akin to losing a piece of her heart. Her legacy endures through her unforgettable performances, particularly as the character who inspired countless viewers to pursue their own dreams of transformation and self-discovery.