British Actresses You Should Know: Imelda Staunton

Imelda Mary Philomena Bernadette Staunton (born 9 January 1956) is an English actress and singer of tremendous talent and versatility. Her mother, Bridie, was a hairdresser, and her father, Joseph, a laborer. She grew up in a London apartment above her mother’s hairdressing salon. Both parents came to London from County Mayo, Ireland, neither from a theatrical or affluent background, although Bridie was a natural performer who played fiddle and concertina.

But Staunton shone in school drama productions, for which Bridie did the hairstyling, and her teachers and parents encouraged her to apply to RADA (Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts). There, she met Timothy Spall, a lifelong friend with whom she has appeared in various projects before beginning a career in repertory theater in 1976. Staunton has performed in multiple plays and musicals throughout her career, as well as in film, TV, and voiceover work.

She has been nominated for 13 Olivier Awards, winning the Best Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical for Into the Woods, Sweeney Todd, and Gypsy. Her other stage appearances include The Beggar's Opera, The Wizard of Oz, Uncle Vanya, Guys and Dolls, Entertaining Mr Sloane, and Good People. She married Jim Carter (Mr. Carson in Downton Abbey) in 1983, and they both appeared in Guys and Dolls. Their daughter Bessie Carter follows in the family's footsteps, currently playing Prudence Featherington (the tallest sister) in Bridgerton, and having appeared as Violet Woodhouse in Beecham House.