40 Facts About Joanna Lumley

Early Life and Family

Joanna Lumley, a name synonymous with elegance and talent, has a fascinating background that shaped her into the icon she is today.

1. Joanna Lamond Lumley was born on May 1, 1946, in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, British India.
2. Her mother, Thyra Beatrice Rose (née Weir), was English, while her father, Major James Rutherford Lumley, was of Scottish-English descent.
3. Her grandfather, Lieutenant Colonel Leslie Weir, was an army officer in Kashmir and a close friend of the 13th Dalai Lama.
4. Major James Rutherford Lumley served as an officer in the British Indian Army's 6th Queen Elizabeth's Own Gurkha Rifles.

Career Span

Joanna Lumley's career is a testament to her versatility and enduring appeal in the entertainment industry.

5. She has been active in the entertainment industry since 1967, marking over five decades of continuous work.
6. Her career includes roles in television, film, and radio, showcasing her wide-ranging talents.
7. One of her most iconic roles is as Patsy Stone in the hit television series Absolutely Fabulous.
8. This role earned her two BAFTA TV Awards, solidifying her status as a comedic genius.

Notable Roles

Joanna Lumley's acting prowess is evident in the variety of roles she has taken on throughout her career.

9. She starred in The New Avengers, a popular British TV series.
10. Lumley also appeared in Sapphire & Steel, a science-fiction series that gained a cult following.
11. She played significant roles in Sensitive Skin and Jam & Jerusalem.
12. More recently, she starred in Finding Alice, a drama series that received critical acclaim.

Film Appearances

Joanna Lumley's impact extends beyond television, with memorable roles in several films.

13. She played a Bond girl in On Her Majesty's Secret Service (1969), a standout role in her early career.
14. Lumley appeared in Trail of the Pink Panther (1982), adding to her diverse filmography.
15. She starred in Shirley Valentine (1989), a film that resonated with many.
16. Her voice brought characters to life in James and the Giant Peach (1996) and Corpse Bride (2005).
17. She had a notable role in The Wolf of Wall Street (2013), showcasing her range as an actress.

Awards and Honors

Joanna Lumley's contributions to the entertainment industry have not gone unnoticed.

18. She was nominated for the 2011 Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Play for the Broadway revival of La Bête.
19. In 2017, she received the BAFTA Fellowship award, recognizing her outstanding contributions to British film and television.
20. Lumley has received honorary doctorates from several prestigious institutions, including Oxford Brooks University (2002) and the University of St Andrews (2006).

Activism and Humanitarian Work

Beyond her acting career, Joanna Lumley is a passionate advocate for various causes.

21. She played a pivotal role in the Gurkha Justice Campaign, which led to Gurkha veterans being allowed to settle in Britain.
22. Lumley supports Survival International, an organization that advocates for indigenous peoples' rights.
23. She is involved with Compassion in World Farming, promoting animal welfare.
24. Lumley also supports Vegetarians' International Voice for Animals, reflecting her commitment to ethical living.

Personal Life

Joanna Lumley's personal life is as intriguing as her professional one.

25. She was briefly married to actor Jeremy Lloyd in 1970, but their marriage ended in a no-fault divorce after a few months.
26. In 1986, she married conductor Stephen Barlow, and they currently live in London together.
27. Lumley has one child, James, born in 1967, whose father is photographer Michael Claydon.
28. James has two daughters, Alice and Emily, making Lumley a proud grandmother.

Fashion Icon

Joanna Lumley's impeccable fashion sense has made her a style icon.

29. Her red carpet appearances are always a highlight, showcasing her timeless elegance.
30. Lumley's fashion choices have inspired countless individuals, cementing her status as a trendsetter.

Environmental Activism

Joanna Lumley is deeply committed to environmental conservation.

31. She actively supports initiatives and organizations that aim to protect and preserve the planet.
32. Her dedication to sustainability serves as an inspiration to millions.

Philanthropy

Joanna Lumley's philanthropic efforts are truly commendable.

33. She devotes her time and resources to various charitable organizations.
34. Lumley's efforts have made a positive impact on numerous lives, reflecting her generous spirit.

Cultural Ambassador

Joanna Lumley embodies the essence of British culture.

35. Her elegance, sophistication, and talent have made her a cultural ambassador for the United Kingdom.
36. She continues to inspire generations of performers with her enduring legacy.

Voice-Over Work

Joanna Lumley's voice is one of the most recognized in the UK.

37. She has been a voice-over artist, recording greetings for AOL in the UK.
38. Lumley appeared in adverts for insurance brokers Privilege from 2004 to 2006.

Radio Adaptations

Joanna Lumley has also made her mark in radio.

39. In 2004, she appeared as the "Woman with the Sydney Opera House Head" in Dirk Maggs's radio adaptation of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy.
40. She read On Her Majesty's Secret Service as Radio 4's "Book at Bedtime" in 1989.

Joanna Lumley's Enduring Legacy

Joanna Lumley's career and life are nothing short of remarkable. From her iconic role as Patsy Stone in Absolutely Fabulous to her tireless activism for human rights and environmental causes, she has left an indelible mark on the world. Her versatility as an actress, presenter, and author showcases her immense talent and dedication. Beyond the screen, her humanitarian efforts, especially for the Gurkha Justice Campaign, highlight her compassion and commitment to making a difference. Despite facing personal challenges like prosopagnosia, she continues to inspire with her resilience and grace. Joanna Lumley isn't just a cultural icon; she's a beacon of elegance, talent, and philanthropy. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and purpose. As she continues her journey, Joanna Lumley's legacy will undoubtedly inspire future generations.