Dame Patricia Routledge , the award-winning British actor best known for her leading performance in the sitcom Keeping Up Appearances , has died at the age of 96.

On Friday morning, Dame Patricia’s spokesperson told the PA news agency: “We are deeply saddened to confirm the passing of Dame Patricia Routledge, who died peacefully in her sleep this morning surrounded by love.

“Even at 96 years old, Dame Patricia’s passion for her work and for connecting with live audiences never waned, just as new generations of audiences have continued to find her through her beloved television roles.”

Their statement added: “She will be dearly missed by those closest to her and by her devoted admirers around the world.”

Keeping Up Appearances fans will remember Dame Patricia for her work as the icon

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