Jean Marsh, the Emmy-winning actress known for her role in the ’70s British drama series “Upstairs, Downstairs,” passed away at her London home at the age of 90. Her death was confirmed by The New York Times, citing complications of dementia as the cause. Marsh co-created the iconic show with fellow actress Eileen Atkins and portrayed the character of Rose Buck, the house parlor maid, in 54 episodes from 1971 to 1975. She also returned to reprise her role in the series’ 2010 continuation.
Throughout her career, Marsh received critical acclaim, winning a Primetime Emmy Award for outstanding lead actress in a drama series in 1975 for her work on “Upstairs, Downstairs.” The original series garnered multiple Emmy wins and a Peabody Award. Marsh was nominated for a total of four Emmys, including for her reprisal in the show.
Aside from her work on television, Marsh appeared in various films and shows, such as Ron Howard’s “Willow” and Alfred Hitchcock’s “Frenzy.” She also made notable guest appearances on series like “Nine to Five,” “Hawaii Five-O,” and “Doctor Who.” Marsh’s last on-screen appearance was in Disney’s 2022 “Willow” remake.
In addition to her screen work, Marsh had a successful stage career, appearing in productions like “The Bird of Time,” “The Chalk Circle,” and “The Old Country.” Before her breakthrough in “Upstairs, Downstairs,” she performed in John Gielgud’s Broadway production of “Much Ado About Nothing” in 1959.
