Contents
Last updated on the 5 May 2025 by Evandrus
Mini Biography
Born: 25 September 1946, Olton, Warwickshire, England.
Felicity Kendal grew up in a theatrical family. Felicity’s father, Geoffrey Kendal, was a dedicated actor/manager who helmed a touring repertory company in India. As a result, her formative years were deeply intertwined with the theatrical world, providing her with constant exposure to the stage and performance.
Her early exposure to theatre shaped her passion for acting, and she made her stage debut at a very young age. Her sister, Jennifer Kendal, also pursued a career in acting, further reinforcing the family’s deep connection to the performing arts.
Kendal’s education was unconventional due to her family’s travels, but she honed her craft through practical experience rather than formal training. She returned to England in the mid-1960s and quickly established herself in the theatre scene. Her breakthrough came with the play “Minor Murder” in 1967, which led to further opportunities in television and film.
Felicity Kendal became a household name through her unforgettable portrayal of Barbara Good in the beloved British sitcom “The Good Life” (1975–1978). The series, which followed a couple’s efforts to embrace self-sufficiency in suburban England, struck a chord with audiences and remains a cherished classic. Beyond this iconic role, Kendal expanded her repertoire with a variety of television projects, including “Solo” (1981–1982), “The Mistress” (1985–1987), and “Rosemary & Thyme” (2003–2006), demonstrating her versatility and enduring appeal.
She also collaborated extensively with playwright Tom Stoppard, appearing in productions such as “The Real Thing” and “Arcadia”.
In her personal life, Felicity Kendal has experienced two marriages, first to Drewe Henley and later to Michael Rudman. She converted to Hinduism during her second marriage, reflecting her deep connection to India. Despite her focus on television, she has maintained a strong presence in theatre, earning critical acclaim for her stage performances.
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 neighbours. Hilarity ensues as they tackle 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, 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 travelling theatre 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.
