Samuel West Emotional as He Recalls Last Conversation with Mum Prunella Scales
All Creatures Great and Small actor Samuel West became visibly tearful while opening up about the loss of his mother, the late Fawlty Towers star Prunella Scales, during a recent television appearance. The poignant moment occurred on his Channel 5 programme Sam & Ade Go Birding, where he shared details of their final proper conversation and her passing in October 2025 at age 93.
Heartfelt Revelation During Birdwatching Trip
While filming an episode at the Holkham Estate on Norfolk's north coast with co-host Adrian Edmondson, West revealed, "Since we last met my mum died. A week ago." He explained that Prunella Scales, renowned for playing Sybil Fawlty in the classic comedy series, had been diagnosed with vascular dementia in 2013 and passed away one day after what would have been her 62nd wedding anniversary. His father, Brass actor Timothy West, had died the previous year in 2024 at age 90.
The Last Proper Conversation Remembered
West recounted a memorable exchange from a couple of years prior, stating, "The last proper conversation I had with her was when she said, 'How old am I?' And I said, 'You are 91 now.' And she said, '91? (expletive).'" He described it as "beautifully timed, beautifully enunciated," prompting laughter from Edmondson. Although they had further discussions afterward, West noted this might be the last one he clearly remembers, calling it "a goodie" to cherish.
Emotional Tributes and Personal Reflections
The actor also shared that he recently attended a tribute where West End theatres dimmed their front-of-house lights, an honour that "would have astonished and delighted her, but it really floored me." He attributed his love of the outdoors to his mother, emphasising her belief that "the show must go on." Despite his grief, West found filming the episode "freeing" and expressed gratitude for participating, with Edmondson supporting him by saying, "I'm glad you did it."
Sam & Ade Go Birding continues to air on Channel 5, capturing these intimate and heartfelt moments alongside the duo's birdwatching adventures.
