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Last updated on the 24 May 2024 by Maeve
Mini Biography
Born: 25 September 1946, Olton, Warwickshire, England.Â
Felicity Kendal came from a family with deep roots in the theatre industry, her father being actor Geoffrey Kendal and her mother actress Laura Liddell, Kendal’s love for acting was nurtured from an early age.
Growing up amidst theater tours across India with her parents’ Shakespearean company, Kendal developed a profound appreciation for storytelling and performance arts. This rich cultural upbringing played a pivotal role in shaping her passion for acting.
After completing her schooling at Clifton High School in Bristol, Kendal pursued further education at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London.
On stage, she made appearances in numerous productions including “The Norman Conquests,” “Hay Fever,” “Humble Boy,” “Amy’s View,” among many others.
In addition to her success on stage, Kendal also lit up screens big and small with memorable roles. One of her standout performances came through the beloved British sitcom “The Good Life” (1975-1978), where she brought charm and wit to the character Barbara Good, a role that became synonymous with Kendal herself.
Her versatility shone through diverse projects such as TV dramas like “Rosemary & Thyme” (2003-2007) and the critically acclaimed film “Shakespeare Wallah” (1965), which further solidified her reputation as an accomplished actress.
Suggested viewing
The Good Life (1975)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.0 “The Good Life” is a British sitcom that follows the lives of Tom and Barbara Good, an eccentric couple who decide to abandon their conventional lifestyle in suburban London and embrace self-sufficiency by turning their garden into a productive vegetable plot, much to the bewilderment of their neighbors. Hilarity ensues as they navigate the challenges and joys of living off the land. Top cast: Richard Briers, Felicity Kendal, Penelope Keith, Paul Eddington, Reginald Marsh, Stanley Lebor, April Walker, and Barbara Ashcroft. |
Rosemary & Thyme (2003)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.6 Rosemary & Thyme is a British detective drama series that follows two talented gardeners, Rosemary Boxer and Laura Thyme, who find themselves embroiled in various murder mysteries while working on stunning gardens. Using their green thumbs and sharp wit, they uncover secrets amidst beautiful landscapes, bringing justice to light. Top cast: Felicity Kendal, Pam Ferris, Clare Wille, Jeremy Child, Laura Howard, Daniel Casey, Joanna David, Oliver Ford Davies. |
Shakespeare Wallah (1965)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.8 “Shakespeare Wallah” is a 1965 film directed by James Ivory. Set in post-colonial India, it follows a traveling theater company of British actors who perform Shakespeare plays. The story explores the clash between tradition and modernity, as well as the changing dynamics of cultural influence after India gained independence from Britain. Top cast: Shashi Kapoor, Felicity Kendal, Geoffrey Kendal, Laura Liddell, Utpal Dutt, Madhur Jaffrey, Prayag Raj, Jim D. Tytler. |
The Camomile Lawn (1992)
Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.5 “The Camomile Lawn” is based on the novel by Mary Wesley. Set during World War II and its aftermath, it portrays the lives of a group of cousins who gather at their aunt’s house in Cornwall. The story delves into love affairs, family secrets, and the impact of war on relationships. Top cast: Felicity Kendal, Paul Eddington, Jennifer Ehle, Tara Fitzgerald, Rosemary Harris, Rebecca Hall, Toby Stephens, and Claire Bloom. |
Full filmography (@Wikipedia)
Felicity Kendal Gallery
