Geraldine McEwan

Last updated on the 8 April 2025 by Maeve

Mini Biography

Born: 9 May 1932, Old Windsor, Berkshire, England

Geraldine McEwan was born into a working class family. Her father was a printer, and her mother worked in a factory. Despite her modest background, McEwan showed an early interest in acting. She attended Windsor County Girls’ School and later enrolled at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London.

McEwan’s career began in the 1950s when she started appearing in stage plays. One of her early breakthroughs came in 1959 when she played Helena in a highly acclaimed production of Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at the Open Air Theatre in Regent’s Park, London.

Throughout her career, McEwan showcased her remarkable range, effortlessly transitioning between comedy and drama. She became a prominent figure in the British theater scene, working with prestigious companies such as the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre.

Geraldine McEwan’s talent was not limited to the stage. She also made notable contributions to film and television. One of her most memorable roles was as Miss Marple in the television series “Agatha Christie’s Marple,” which aired from 2004 to 2009. Her portrayal of the beloved detective won critical acclaim and introduced her to a new generation of viewers.

In “Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit” (1989) Geraldine McEwan played the part of Jess’s fanatical mother in a towering performance that won her a Best Actress BAFTA.

Geraldine McEwan was a private person and kept her personal life away from the spotlight. She was married to Hugh Cruttwell, who was the principal of RADA, until his death in 2002. The couple had two children together.

Outside of her acting career, McEwan was known for her support of various charitable causes. She was an ambassador for the charity Action for Children and actively participated in fundraising events.

WINNER|Television: Actress for Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit 1991

Suggested viewing

Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit (1989)

Bftv 9.5 / IMDb 7.7

“Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit” is based on a semi-autobiographical novel by Jeanette Winterson. It follows the life of a young girl named Jeanette, who is raised in a strict religious community. As she grows up, she discovers her own sexuality, leading to conflict with her family and the community she belongs to.

Top cast: Charlotte Coleman, Geraldine McEwan, Emily Aston, Kenneth Cranham, Elizabeth Spriggs, Cathryn Bradshaw, Celia Imrie, Freda Dowie, Barbara Hicks.

Mulberry (1992)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 8.4

In the quaint English village of Mulberry, a bumbling but well-meaning guardian angel named Mulberry is assigned to help the residents. With his unconventional methods and good intentions, Mulberry brings chaos, laughter and unexpected outcomes to the lives of those he is meant to assist.

Top cast: Karl Howman, Geraldine McEwan, Tony Selby, Lill Roughley, Elizabeth Spriggs, John Bennett, Marjorie Yates, and Ruth Madoc.

Marple (2004)

Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 7.8

In the picturesque village of St. Mary Mead, the sharp-witted Miss Marple utilizes her astute observation skills and deep understanding of human nature to solve perplexing crimes. With an unwavering determination and a keen eye for details, she unravels the truth behind baffling mysteries, bringing justice in her wake.

Top cast: Geraldine McEwan, Joanna Lumley, Sylvia Syms, Russell Tovey, Hugo Speer, Shirley Henderson, Margo Stilley, Steve Pemberton.

Mapp & Lucia (1985)

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 8.4

Set in the quaint town of Tilling, “Mapp & Lucia” follows the fierce rivalry between two strong-willed women, Lucia and Mapp, as they compete for dominance in the town’s social hierarchy. Their cunning schemes and hilarious escapades create a delightful tale of wit, gossip and social maneuvering.

Top cast: Geraldine McEwan, Prunella Scales, Nigel Hawthorn, Denis Lill, Mary MacLeod, James Green, Cecily Hobbs, Geoffrey Chapter.

The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (1978)

Bftv 9.0 / IMDb 7.6

Set in 1930s Edinburgh, this story revolves around Miss Jean Brodie, a charismatic and unorthodox teacher who molds a group of young girls with her unbridled passion for art, politics, and life. But as her influence deepens, the consequences of her actions become both inspiring and devastating.

Top cast: Geraldine McEwan, Lynsey Baxter, Amanda Kirby, Vivienne Ross, Helena McCarthy, Jane Carr, Margo Cunningham, and Elizabeth Estensen.

Full filmography @ Wikipedia