Felicity Kendal has described Penelope Keith as a “comic genius” who was “a joy to know and work with” following her death at the age of 86.
The The Good Life actress, whose death was announced on Monday, was best known for playing Margo Leadbetter in the BBC sitcom, as well as the widowed aristocrat Audrey fforbes-Hamilton in To The Manor Born.
Ms Keith had been living with cancer.
In a statement, Ms Kendal said: “I am deeply saddened to hear of my friend Penelope’s death.
“The shows I worked on with her were such special times in our lives and truly showcased her comic genius.
“My heart goes out to her beloved Rodney at this time. Theirs was a great love story and a remarkable partnership.
“She was a joy to know and work with, and she will be greatly missed,” she told PA.
Ms Keith’s family also released a statement, saying they were “deeply saddened” to announce that she had “died peacefully while living with cancer” at her home in Surrey.
The statement added: “The family is grateful for the care and support she received throughout her treatment and asks that their privacy be respected at this time.”
Fans and well-known figures have since echoed Ms Kendal’s tribute to Dame Penelope.
On X, former MEP Annunziata Rees-Mogg was among the first to react, writing: “RIP Dame Penelope Keith. A true national treasure.”
Meanwhile, Jeremy Hunt wrote: “Incredibly sad to hear of the passing of Dame Penelope Keith CBE.
“She was a neighbour and friend, dearly loved by all who knew her in Milford. She helped Britain laugh at itself — one of our finest national qualities — and brought joy to millions. RIP dear Penny.”
Presenter Piers Morgan also paid tribute, writing: “RIP Penelope Keith. One of Britain’s funniest ladies. Thanks for all the laughs.” (sic)
Dame Penelope began her career on stage and joined the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1963, but it was her work in sitcoms that made her a household name.
She won a BAFTA in 1977 for her portrayal of the snobbish yet ultimately warm-hearted social climber Margo.
Beyond The Good Life and To The Manor Born, Ms Keith also appeared in sitcoms Executive Stress, No Job For A Lady, and Next of Kin.
She also won a BAFTA for the television adaptation of The Norman Conquests, reprising a role she had previously performed on stage.
She later lent her voice to several famous adverts, including Pimm’s, Lurpak, and most notably, the Parker Pen Company campaign, which was named one of the 100 greatest adverts.
