Glenda Jackson, the dynamic and exceptionally talented actress who made the bold transition from acting to politics, has sadly passed away at the age of 87. While her cause of death remains undisclosed, her legacy as a groundbreaking performer and influential politician will undoubtedly live on. When asked if she missed acting while serving in politics, Jackson responded, “Acting can only exist in the present moment. If you’re not doing it, there’s nothing to miss.” Her agent, Lionel Larner, confirmed her passing and shared that she peacefully passed away at her home in Blackheath, London after a brief illness, surrounded by her loved ones. He mentioned that she had recently completed filming for “The Great Escaper,” where she co-starred alongside Michael Caine. Larner added, “Today, the world has lost one of its greatest actresses, and I have lost my best friend of over 50 years.”
Born on May 9, 1936, in Birkenhead, Jackson honed her acting skills at the renowned Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. Her career took flight with her appearance in the 1966 Royal Shakespeare Company production of “Marat/Sade,” and from there, she became an icon on the stage. Her exceptional talent earned her five remarkable Laurence Olivier Award nominations throughout the years, notably for her performances in “Antony and Cleopatra” in 1979 and “King Lear” in 2017.
Jackson’s international fame primarily stems from her work in the film industry. She won two Oscars for her roles in Ken Russell’s adaptation of D.H. Lawrence’s “Women in Love” and the romantic-comedy “Touch of Class” in 1973. Additionally, Jackson received two more Academy Award nominations for her work in the British drama “Sunday Bloody Sunday” in 1971 and the film adaptation of Henrik Ibsen’s “Hedda Gabler” in 1975. Interestingly, she also appeared in the stage version of “Hedda Gabler” that same year.
In addition to her accomplishments on the stage and screen, Jackson made notable appearances in several television series, including her award-winning portrayal of Queen Elizabeth I in the 1971 BBC series “Elizabeth R.”
Unexpectedly, in 1992, Jackson left behind her acting career to pursue politics. She successfully won a seat in the UK’s House of Commons as a member of the Labor party. Despite initial doubts from both sides of the political spectrum, Jackson emerged as a respected and formidable force. She had a remarkable 23-year career, during which she famously criticized Prime Minister Tony Blair for his involvement in the Iraq war and controversially criticized Margaret Thatcher’s legacy shortly after the former Prime Minister’s death in 2013.
After leaving politics in 2015, Jackson returned to her roots in the theater, showcasing her versatility and talent once again. Her recent roles included the gender-bending rendition of “King Lear” and the revival of Edward Albee’s acclaimed drama “Three Tall Women,” for which she won a Tony Award for Best Actress in a Play in 2018. Despite her incredible resume, Jackson admitted that she never actively pursued specific roles, preferring to wait and see what opportunities came her way.
Jackson is survived by her son, columnist Dan Hodges. Her life and career leave an indelible mark on the world of acting and politics, and she will be greatly missed.
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