Two-Time Oscar-Winning Actress Glenda Jackson Dies at Age 87

Glenda Jackson, a British actress and former Labour MP, has passed away at the age of 87. She was regarded as one of the greatest actresses of her generation for her wonderful contributions to the entertainment industry.

Early Life and Education

Jackson was born in Birkenhead, Cheshire, England, in May 1936. Her father, barge captain Harry Jackson, and mother, Joan (nee Arkinstall), were both from working-class backgrounds.

After leaving school, Jackson worked as a shorthand typist for a short time before gaining a scholarship to attend the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. She made her stage debut in 1957 and quickly established herself as one of Britain’s finest actresses.

Acting Career

Jackson’s acting career reached its zenith in the late 1960s and early 1970s, when she won two Academy Awards for “Women in Love” (1969) and “A Touch of Class” (1973). She was the first actress since Luise Rainer to win back-to-back Oscars.

Jackson was known for her versatility and played a range of characters in films, television, and on stage. She first came to prominence in the 1960s as a stage actress and appeared in numerous productions in London’s West End and on Broadway, including “Marat/Sade” (1967) and “Rose” (1999).

She was also a regular performer for the BBC and appeared in several series, including “The Morecambe and Wise Show” and “Elizabeth R”.

Despite her success, Jackson chose to abandon acting in the early 1990s to pursue a career in politics.

Political Career

In 1992, Jackson was elected as the Labour MP for Hampstead and Highgate. She was a popular and effective member of parliament for 23 years before retiring from politics in 2015.

During her time as an MP, Jackson was a vocal opponent of the Conservative government’s policies on a range of issues, including social welfare, education, and foreign policy.

She also served as a junior transport minister under Tony Blair’s government from 1997 to 1999.

Return to Acting

In 2016, Jackson made a triumphant return to acting in the West End production of “King Lear”.

Three years later, she won a Tony Award for her performance in “Three Tall Women” on Broadway. In 2019, she won a BAFTA TV Award for her role in the drama “Elizabeth Is Missing”.

Most recently, she completed work on the upcoming film “The Great Escaper” alongside Michael Caine, her co-star in “A Touch of Class”.

Personal Life

Throughout her life, Jackson was known for her humility and her commitment to social justice. She was a prominent feminist and campaigned tirelessly for equal rights for women.

She never married and had no children.

Conclusion

Glenda Jackson was a talented actress and a committed political figure who made an enormous contribution to British culture and society. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of her fans and the memories of those who knew and loved her.

FAQ

1. What were Glenda Jackson’s most famous roles?

Jackson was known for her versatile acting and played a range of characters in films, television, and on stage. She won two Academy Awards for her roles in “Women in Love” and “A Touch of Class”. She was also a regular performer for the BBC and appeared in several series, including “The Morecambe and Wise Show” and “Elizabeth R”.

2. When did Glenda Jackson retire from politics?

Jackson retired from politics in 2015 after serving as an MP for 23 years.

3. What other accolades did Glenda Jackson receive for her acting?

Jackson won a Tony Award for her performance in “Three Tall Women” on Broadway and a BAFTA TV Award for her role in the drama “Elizabeth Is Missing”.

4. Was Glenda Jackson involved in any charitable work?

Yes, Jackson was a vocal advocate for social justice and campaigned tirelessly for equal rights for women. She worked with several charitable organizations, including the Women’s Resource Centre and Women in Prison.

5. Did Glenda Jackson have any children?

No, Jackson never had children.