30 Facts About Maureen Lipman

Early Life and Inspiration

Maureen Lipman's journey into the world of acting began with a strong family influence and early exposure to the arts.

1. Born to a Jewish tailor father, Maurice Julius Lipman, and her mother, Zelma Pearlman, Maureen Lipman was encouraged to pursue acting from a young age.
2. Her mother often took her to pantomimes and pushed her onto the stage, fostering her love for performance.

Education and Early Career

Lipman's formal education and early career choices laid the foundation for her future success.

3. She studied at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA), where she refined her acting skills.
4. After completing her training at LAMDA, Lipman joined Laurence Olivier’s National Theatre Company at the Old Vic for two years.
5. During her time at the Old Vic, she appeared in plays alongside notable actors like Diana Rigg and Paul Curran.

Theatre and Stage Performances

Maureen Lipman's versatility and talent shone brightly on stage, earning her critical acclaim and numerous awards.

6. Lipman spent a season with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC), further enhancing her theatrical experience.
7. One of her earliest notable roles was in the play See How They Run, for which she won an Olivier Award in 1985 for her portrayal of Miss Skillion.
8. She played Aunt Eller in the National Theatre’s production of Oklahoma! opposite Hugh Jackman as Curly.
9. In recent years, Lipman starred in Glorious! at the Duchess Theatre, showcasing her superb comic timing.
10. She also starred in When We Are Married at the Garrick Theatre, Daytona at Theatre Royal Haymarket, and The Best Man at the Playhouse Theatre.
11. Lipman appeared alongside Felicity Kendal in Lettice and Lovage at the Menier Chocolate Factory.

Television and Film Career

Lipman's impact on British television and film has been significant, with memorable roles that have made her a household name.

12. In 2018, she joined Coronation Street as the matriarch Evelyn Plummer, further cementing her status as a television icon.
13. Her association with Coronation Street goes back to her husband Jack Rosenthal’s involvement in creating the serial drama in 1960.
14. Lipman made her first film appearance in Up The Junction in 1968.
15. She also featured in Roman Polanski’s award-winning film The Pianist.

Awards and Honors

Throughout her career, Maureen Lipman has received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to drama and the arts.

16. She was awarded a CBE (Commander of the British Empire) in the 1999 Queen’s New Year Honors List for her services to drama.
17. In 2020, she was awarded a Damehood for her services to charity, entertainment, and the arts.

Personal Life and Writing Career

Lipman's personal life and writing career have also been notable, with her family playing a significant role in her success.

18. She married playwright Jack Rosenthal in 1973, and the couple had two children together.
19. After Jack’s death in 2004, she completed his unfinished autobiography and starred in her daughter Amy Rosenthal’s four-part adaptation of the book on BBC Radio 4.
20. In addition to her acting career, Lipman is a prolific writer, having written a decade-long column for Good Housekeeping and currently writing for The Oldie.

Recent Work and Health Challenges

Despite facing health challenges, Lipman has continued to work and contribute to the arts.

21. Her recent work includes her one-woman show Re Joyce, an homage to her heroine Joyce Grenfell.
22. In 2018, she underwent major surgery to remove a tumor at the top of her spine, which was threatening to paralyze her.

Philanthropy and Social Causes

Lipman is actively involved in supporting various charities and social causes.

23. She supports the work of Burma Campaign UK and the process of democratization in that country.
24. Lipman is also the patron of the International Myeloma Foundation UK.

Impact and Legacy

Maureen Lipman's impact on British entertainment and her legacy as an actress and writer are immense.

25. Her presence on British television has been significant, with roles in Coronation Street and other sitcoms making her a household name.
26. Lipman’s influence on other actors cannot be overstated, with her unique style and approach to acting inspiring many young actors.
27. Her contributions to the arts have been recognized through numerous awards and honors.
28. Lipman’s ability to balance her career with family life has been particularly inspiring for many women in entertainment.

Recent Activities and Future Prospects

Maureen Lipman continues to be active in the entertainment industry, with recent projects and future prospects keeping her in the spotlight.

29. Her one-woman show Re Joyce and recent West End performances in Rose at the Ambassadors Theatre highlight her ongoing relevance in the entertainment industry.
30. As she continues to return to the West End with new productions, her impact on British entertainment will only continue to grow.

Maureen Lipman's Lasting Legacy

Maureen Lipman’s career spans over six decades, showcasing her versatility in both stage and screen performances. From her early days with Laurence Olivier’s National Theatre Company to her recent role in Coronation Street, she has consistently delivered memorable performances. Her comedic timing, ability to adapt to various genres, and influence on other actors have made her a beloved figure in British entertainment.

Lipman’s contributions extend beyond acting. She’s a prolific writer, a dedicated philanthropist, and a role model for many. Her awards, including a CBE and a Damehood, highlight her impact on the arts and charity. Despite health challenges, she remains a prolific performer, inspiring future generations.

Maureen Lipman’s legacy is immense. Her dedication, talent, and influence have left an indelible mark on British culture. As she continues to grace the stage and screen, her impact will only grow.