The performer and television personality Dame Penelope Keith has passed away aged 86, her relatives have announced.

She gained recognition for her roles in the sitcoms The Good Life and To the Manor Born.

In a communication from Dame Penelope’s family, they shared that Dame Penelope Keith died peacefully at her residence in Surrey whilst battling cancer, a place she had called home for more than five decades. The family expressed gratitude for the medical attention and assistance she was given throughout her illness, and respectfully requested that their privacy be maintained during this period.

Among those sharing memories was MP Jeremy Hunt, who wrote on the social media platform that this was extremely distressing news regarding the death of Dame Penelope Keith CBE. He noted that she resided locally and was a companion to many in Milford, where she was cherished by all who knew her. He added that she enabled Britain to find humour in itself, which he described as one of the finest characteristics as a nation, and that she provided joy to countless individuals. He concluded with a farewell, addressing her as dear Penny.

Dame Penelope Keith’s professional journey

Keith was born in Sutton, Surrey, during 1940, and at the age of six was enrolled at a Catholic convent boarding establishment in Seaford.

It was during her time at this institution that her enthusiasm for performing developed, and she regularly attended afternoon performances in London’s theatre district alongside her mother.

Keith became a member of the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1963 and subsequently secured the 1976 Olivier Award for Best Comedy Performance for the production Donkeys’ Years.

She achieved widespread fame throughout Britain portraying Margo Leadbetter in the sitcom The Good Life spanning 1975 to 1978, earning the 1977 BAFTA Television Award for Best Light Entertainment Performance.

In 1978, Keith received the BAFTA Television Award for Best Actress for her work in The Norman Conquests.

During the latter part of her career, she hosted various documentary series for both the BBC and Channel 4.

She was honoured as Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in the 2014 New Year Honours, recognising her contributions to the arts and charitable causes.