Barbara Leigh-Hunt, the beloved actress known for her diverse film, television, and theatre roles, has died at 88. She passed away peacefully on September 16 at her home in Warwickshire.
Leigh-Hunt’s career spanned several decades, but she is perhaps best remembered for her role in Alfred Hitchcock’s penultimate film, Frenzy (1972), in which she portrayed a victim of a necktie murderer played by the late Barry Foster. Reflecting on her experience, she described Hitchcock as “the perfect gentleman.”
Her impressive filmography also included notable performances such as an academic vice-principal in Billy Elliott (2000) and Lady Bareacres in Vanity Fair (2004), alongside Reese Witherspoon. She appeared in Henry VIII and His Six Wives (1972) and Bequest to the Nation (1973), showcasing her versatility and leaving a lasting impact across various genres.
In addition to her film work, Leigh-Hunt made significant contributions to television and theatre. She starred in the acclaimed 1995 TV adaptation of Pride and Prejudice alongside Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle. Her stage career was equally illustrious, with performances for the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre gracing both the West End and Broadway stages.
Some of her notable stage performances include the play Pack of Lies (1983) opposite Judi Dench, as well as roles in Mrs Mouse, Are You Within? (1968) and King Lear (1976). In 1993, she received the Olivier Award for Best Supporting Actress for portraying Sybil Birling in ‘An Inspector Calls’.
Born in Somerset, Leigh-Hunt was raised by her mother, Betty, who nurtured her love for theatre from a young age. This early exposure to theatre ignited a lifelong passion for acting. The family moved to London during Leigh-Hunt’s teenage years, where she graduated from the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School in 1953.
Leigh-Hunt’s first acting job came in 1947 on the BBC radio show *Children’s Hour*. After graduation, she toured America and Canada with the Old Vic, performing in productions of *A Midsummer Night’s Dream* and *Twelfth Night*.
In 1967, she married fellow actor Richard Pasco, a union that brought her much joy and support throughout her life. Their partnership was a testament to their shared love for the arts. Barbara Leigh-Hunt’s legacy as a talented and cherished performer will be fondly remembered by audiences and colleagues alike.
