40 Facts About Diana Rigg

Early Life and Education

Diana Rigg, an iconic actress, had a fascinating early life that shaped her illustrious career. Let's dive into some intriguing facts about her beginnings.

1. 01Born on July 20, 1938, in Doncaster, England, Diana Rigg spent her early years in India due to her father's work as a railway engineer.
2. 02Rigg attended a boarding school in England at the age of eight, which she described as a challenging experience.
3. 03She later studied at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, where she honed her acting skills.

Rise to Fame

Diana Rigg's career took off with some remarkable roles that made her a household name. Here are some key moments from her rise to stardom.

4. 04Rigg's breakthrough role came in 1965 when she was cast as Emma Peel in the British TV series "The Avengers."
5. 05Her portrayal of Emma Peel turned her into a fashion icon, known for her stylish outfits and strong, independent character.
6. 06In 1969, she starred as Tracy Bond, James Bond's wife, in "On Her Majesty's Secret Service."

Theatre Achievements

Diana Rigg's talent wasn't confined to the screen. She also made significant contributions to the theatre world.

7. 07Rigg joined the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1959, where she performed in numerous productions.
8. 08She won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play for her role in "Medea" in 1994.
9. 09Rigg's performance in "Abelard and Heloise" earned her a nomination for a Tony Award in 1971.

Later Career and Iconic Roles

Even in her later years, Diana Rigg continued to captivate audiences with her performances. Let's explore some of her notable roles.

10. 10Rigg played the formidable Olenna Tyrell in the hit TV series "Game of Thrones" from 2013 to 2017.
11. 11She received an Emmy nomination for her role in "Game of Thrones" in 2013.
12. 12Rigg starred in the BBC series "Victoria" as the Duchess of Buccleuch from 2017 to 2019.

Personal Life

Beyond her professional achievements, Diana Rigg had an interesting personal life filled with unique experiences.

13. 13Rigg married Israeli painter Menachem Gueffen in 1973, but they divorced in 1976.
14. 14She later married theatre producer Archibald Stirling in 1982, with whom she had a daughter, Rachael Stirling.
15. 15Rigg's daughter, Rachael Stirling, followed in her footsteps and became an actress.

Awards and Honors

Diana Rigg's contributions to the arts were recognized with numerous awards and honors throughout her career.

16. 16Rigg was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 1988.
17. 17She was elevated to Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 1994 for her services to drama.
18. 18Rigg received the BAFTA TV Award for Best Actress for her role in "Mother Love" in 1990.

Interesting Tidbits

Here are some lesser-known facts about Diana Rigg that showcase her diverse interests and talents.

19. 19Rigg was fluent in Hindi, a skill she picked up during her childhood in India.
20. 20She was an accomplished cook and even published a cookbook titled "No Turn Unstoned" in 1982.
21. 21Rigg was known for her sharp wit and often made humorous remarks about her career and life.

Legacy

Diana Rigg's legacy continues to inspire and influence the world of entertainment. Here are some ways she left her mark.

22. 22Rigg's portrayal of strong, independent women paved the way for future generations of actresses.
23. 23Her work in both film and theatre showcased her versatility and dedication to her craft.
24. 24Rigg's influence extended beyond acting, as she was also a vocal advocate for women's rights and equality.

Final Years

Even in her final years, Diana Rigg remained active and continued to contribute to the arts.

25. 25Rigg appeared in the 2020 film "Last Night in Soho," which was released posthumously.
26. 26She continued to work in theatre, starring in the West End production of "My Fair Lady" in 2018.
27. 27Rigg passed away on September 10, 2020, at the age of 82, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable performances.

Fun Facts

Let's round off with some fun and quirky facts about Diana Rigg that you might not know.

28. 28Rigg was a fan of the TV show "The Simpsons" and even voiced a character in one of the episodes.
29. 29She had a pet cat named Pigeon, which she adored.
30. 30Rigg was known for her love of gardening and spent much of her free time tending to her garden.

Memorable Quotes

Diana Rigg was known for her sharp wit and memorable quotes. Here are a few that capture her essence.

31. 31"I hope there's a tinge of disgrace about me. Hopefully, there's one good scandal left in me yet."
32. 32"The older you get, the funnier you find life."
33. 33"I don't go without make-up. I'm a woman, you know."

Influence on Pop Culture

Diana Rigg's impact on pop culture is undeniable. Here are some ways she influenced the entertainment world.

34. 34Rigg's character Emma Peel inspired many female action heroes in movies and TV shows.
35. 35Her role in "Game of Thrones" introduced her to a new generation of fans.
36. 36Rigg's fashion sense in "The Avengers" influenced 1960s fashion trends.

Philanthropy and Activism

Diana Rigg was also known for her philanthropic efforts and activism. Here are some causes she supported.

37. 37Rigg was a patron of the International Care & Relief charity, which focused on helping children in need.
38. 38She supported the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), a charity that saves lives at sea.
39. 39Rigg was an advocate for animal rights and supported various animal welfare organizations.

Lasting Impact

Diana Rigg's contributions to the arts and her lasting impact on the entertainment industry are worth celebrating.

40. 40Rigg's performances continue to be celebrated and studied by aspiring actors and actresses worldwide.

Diana Rigg: A Legacy of Talent and Grace

Diana Rigg left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Her roles in "The Avengers" and "Game of Thrones" showcased her versatility and talent. Beyond acting, she was a trailblazer, breaking barriers for women in the industry. Her wit, charm, and dedication to her craft earned her numerous awards and the admiration of fans worldwide.

Rigg's influence extended beyond the screen. She was a passionate advocate for the arts and education, inspiring future generations. Her legacy is a testament to her talent, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Diana Rigg will always be remembered as a true icon, whose contributions to film, television, and theater continue to resonate. Her life and career serve as a reminder of the power of talent, determination, and grace.