Legendary actress and writer Jean Marsh, best known for co-creating and starring in the hit 1970s TV series Upstairs, Downstairs, has passed away at the age of 90. Marsh died peacefully in her London home on Sunday due to complications from dementia, according to film-maker Michael Lindsay-Hogg.
Marsh was a talented actress who won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 1975 for her portrayal of Rose, the head parlour maid of the Bellamy family in Upstairs, Downstairs. She also co-created The House of Eliott and appeared in numerous films, including Cleopatra and Doctor Who.
Born Lyndsay Torren Marsh on July 1, 1934, Jean Marsh began taking ballet classes at seven and pursued a career in theatre instead of traditional medicine or science, as was common for working-class individuals during that time. She came up with the idea for Upstairs, Downstairs while house-sitting in France, wanting to experience luxury more often.
Marsh’s legacy extends beyond her acting career, including her award-winning work in drama and her contributions to theatre education. She received an OBE in 2012 for services to drama and will be remembered as a beloved and talented actress who brought characters to life on screen.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2025/apr/13/jean-marsh-co-creator-of-1970s-tv-hit-upstairs-downstairs-dies-at-90