Prunella Scales, birth name Prunella Margaret Rumney Illingworth, was born on June 22, 1932, in Sutton Abinger, Surrey, England. She was the daughter of a banker, and her mother was an actress. Scales showed a passion for acting from a young age and attended the Old Vic Theatre School in London to further her skills.
Scales began her acting career in the 1950s, performing in various theater productions, including Shakespearean plays. In 1953, she made her professional stage debut in the play “The Confidential Clerk” by T.S. Eliot.
In the early 1960s, Scales gained recognition for her performance as Celia in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s production of “As You Like It.” Her portrayal of Celia received critical acclaim, and it marked a significant milestone in her career.
In 1965, Scales made her first foray into television, appearing in an episode of the popular British series “The Avengers.” This marked the beginning of a successful television career that would span several decades.
Scales became a household name in the United Kingdom and around the world for her role as the indomitable Sybil Fawlty in the iconic comedy series “Fawlty Towers.” Created by John Cleese and Connie Booth, the series ran for only twelve episodes but has since become a classic. Scales’ portrayal of Sybil Fawlty, the wife of the ill-tempered hotelier Basil Fawlty (played by Cleese), showcased her impeccable comedic timing and earned her widespread acclaim.
Following the success of “Fawlty Towers,” Scales continued her television career, appearing in numerous British series and dramas. Notable roles include Queen Mary in the historical drama “Edward the Seventh” (1975), Mrs. Bennett in “Pride and Prejudice” (1995), and Queen Elizabeth II in “A Question of Attribution” (1991).
Alongside her television work, Scales also had a successful film career. She appeared in movies such as “Carry On Regardless” (1961), “If…” (1968), “An Awfully Big Adventure” (1995), and the “Madagascar” franchise (as the voice of Nana). Scales’ versatility as an actress enabled her to take on a wide range of roles, from drama to comedy.
Throughout her career, Scales garnered several awards and recognitions for her outstanding performances. In 1980, she won the BAFTA TV Award for Best Comedy Performance for her role in “Fawlty Towers.” In 1995, she received the Theatre World Award for her performance in the play “An Evening with Queen Victoria.” She was also appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 1992 New Year Honours for her services to drama.
Outside of her acting career, Scales is known for her interest in and contributions to canal and narrowboat preservation. She and her husband, actor Timothy West, have appeared in numerous TV documentaries, including the popular series “Great Canal Journeys,” where they explore Britain’s waterways.
Prunella Scales’ talent and contributions to the world of acting have left an indelible mark on British television and theater. Her comedic brilliance, coupled with her ability to portray a wide range of characters, has made her an beloved and enduring presence in both mediums. Scales’ legacy will forever be linked to her iconic role in “Fawlty Towers,” a series that has become a cult classic and continues to be celebrated worldwide.
