Who was Pauline Collins? The Shirley Valentine star passed away at 85

Who was Pauline Collins? The Shirley Valentine Star Passed Away at 85

Veteran British actress Pauline Collins passed away peacefully in a London care home at the age of 85, surrounded by her family. The family shared a statement confirming her death after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Pauline Collins’ family said she died “peacefully” at her London care home, surrounded by loved ones.

Career Highlights

Pauline Collins was best known for portraying Shirley in Lewis Gilbert’s film Shirley Valentine, based on Willy Russell’s acclaimed stage play. The performance earned her international recognition, a Golden Globe for Best Actress, and a BAFTA Award, while also securing an Oscar nomination.

Born in Exmouth in 1940 and raised near Liverpool
Originally trained as a teacher before turning to acting in the late 1950s
Made her screen debut as a nurse in Emergency Ward 10 (1957)
Appeared in Secrets of a Windmill Girl (1966) as a dancer
Gained popularity on British television with The Liver Birds and Upstairs, Downstairs

Legacy

Her role in Shirley Valentine made Pauline Collins a beloved figure both in the UK and internationally. Her performances blended warmth, humor, and emotional depth, leaving a lasting mark on British cinema and theatre.

Author’s summary: Pauline Collins, celebrated British actress known for Shirley Valentine, died at 85 after a long illness, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in film and theater.

Mint — 2025-11-07