Celia Imrie

Last updated on the 12 May 2025 by Maeve

Mini Biography

Born: 15 July 1952, Guildford, Surrey, England. 

Celia Imrie was the fourth of five children in her family, with her father, Dr. David Andrew Imrie, working as a radiologist. Her mother, Diana Elizabeth, came from a distinguished lineage. Imrie’s early years were shaped by her education at Guildford High School, an independent school for girls, followed by training at the Guildford School of Acting.

Celia Imrie’s acting career spans decades, with notable roles in both film and television. She gained recognition for her performances in films such as “Bridget Jones’s Diary” (2001), “Calendar Girls” (2003), “Nanny McPhee” (2005), and “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” (2011). Her ability to bring warmth and humour to her characters made her a favourite among audiences. She also appeared in “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again” (2018) and “Love Sarah” (2020), further cementing her reputation as a talented and adaptable actress.

On television, Imrie has been a familiar face in British entertainment, starring in “Victoria Wood: As Seen on TV”, “Dinnerladies”, and “Absolutely Fabulous”. She played memorable roles in “Doctor Who”, “Cranford”, and “Kingdom”, showcasing her range across different genres. Her collaborations with Victoria Wood were particularly beloved, highlighting her comedic prowess.

In her personal life, Imrie has a son, Angus Imrie, who has followed in her footsteps as an actor. She has spoken openly about her experiences in the industry and her passion for storytelling. Residing in London, she continues to take on diverse roles, proving her enduring appeal and talent.

Suggested viewing

Acorn Antiques (1987)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 8.0

“Acorn Antiques” is a comedic gem that takes a playful jab at soap operas, centring on the eccentric staff of a charmingly chaotic antique shop. The show weaves exaggerated drama, love triangles and bouts of amnesia, into the everyday antics of its quirky characters. While the shop remains the heart of the action, the story spills into the employees’ personal lives, crafting hilarious moments as they juggle work, romance and unforeseen twists.

Top cast: Julie Walters, Duncan Preston, Maggie Steed, Susie Blake, Celia Imrie, Sam Kelly, Victoria Wood, Deborah Grant.

Dinnerladies (1998)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.8

A comedic glimpse into the lives of cafeteria staff at a bustling workplace, this series follows their daily routines, quirky personalities and unexpected dramas. Amid serving meals and navigating workplace politics, friendships blossom, romances falter and hilarious mishaps ensue, proving that behind every tray of food, there’s a hearty dose of laughter.

Top cast: Victoria Wood, Anne Reid, Thelma Barlow, Julie Walters, Celia Imrie, Shobna Gulati, Maxine Peake, Andrew Dunn.

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2001)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.2

“The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” follows a group of British retirees who decide to spend their twilight years in a luxurious-sounding Indian hotel, which turns out to be dilapidated. As they settle in, each character faces personal challenges, cultural differences and relationships while discovering new perspectives and finding unexpected happiness.

Top cast: Bill Nighy, Maggie Smith, Tom Wilkinson, Judi Dench, Dev Patel, Penelope Wilton, Celia Imrie, Ronald Pickup, Ramona Marquez.

The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2015)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.5

“The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel” follows the challenges faced by ambitious hotelier Sonny as he plans to expand his business while managing the various personal and professional dramas of his ageing guests. With new arrivals and romantic entanglements, the hotel’s future hangs in the balance amidst humour, heartwarming moments and unexpected twists.

Top cast: Alison Steadman, Dev Patel, Judi Dench, Richard Gere, Maggie Smith, Bill Nighy, Celia Imrie, Penelope Wilton, Ronald Pickup, Diana Hardcastle.

Calendar Girls (2003)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.9

“Calendar Girls” is a heartwarming comedy-drama about a group of middle-aged women who decide to create a nude calendar for charity. The calendar becomes a sensation, bringing both positive attention and unexpected challenges to the women’s lives. Through humour and camaraderie, they tackle fame, friendships and personal growth.

Top cast: Helen Mirren, Julie Walters, Penelope Wilton, Linda Bassett, Annette Crosbie, Celia Imrie, Geraldine James, and Philip Glenister.

Full filmography (@Wikipedia)