Dame Patricia Routledge has shared the moment Prince Charles expressed his joy that she was finally recognised for her theatre work as she received her honour at Buckingham Palace. The 88-year-old actress, best known for her role as Hyacinth Bucket in the BBC sitcom Keeping Up Appearances, was made a Dame Commander of the British Empire for services to theatre and charity.
Speaking to the Press Association, Dame Patricia said: 'I’m still in a state of surprise and very thrilled, and very thrilled that the Prince of Wales is here today because he just loves actors and he is our much-appreciated patron of the Actors’ Benevolent Fund.' She added that Prince Charles told her: 'At last somebody’s noticed. He said how pleased he was, and a little more.'
Dame Patricia has had a prolific stage career spanning six decades, winning an Olivier Award for her role in Leonard Bernstein's operetta Candide in 1988 and a Tony Award for Darling Of The Day in 1968. Despite her extensive work, she said she does not have a favourite role, stating: 'I don’t do beloved roles, I’ve just had a wonderfully interesting time with so many roles. So many interesting plays.'
The actress revealed she will keep her medal safely in a drawer but planned to show it off at a lunch party for 20 people later that day. 'I shall show it to people at lunch, obviously,' she said.
