An English
character actor best known for her portrayals of
eccentric and elderly
grand dames. She must once have been young but it is impossible to imagine it. Among her roles are:
Born in Balham ("gateway to the south") in south London on 11 May 1892, her first film role was in Dusty Ermine in 1936. She won an Oscar for The VIPs in 1963, was created a Dame, and died on 22 May 1972.