Jean Marsh, the Emmy award-winning actor and co-creator of the iconic British drama series “Upstairs, Downstairs,” passed away on Sunday, April 13, 2025, at her home in London. She was 90 years old. The cause of death was complications of dementia, as confirmed by her close friend, filmmaker Michael Lindsay-Hogg.
Marsh, who was born on July 1, 1934, in Stoke Newington, London, co-created “Upstairs, Downstairs” with fellow actress Eileen Atkins. The series, which aired from 1971 to 1975, depicted the lives of the wealthy Bellamy family and their servants living in a grand London townhouse during the Edwardian era. Marsh portrayed Rose Buck, the head parlormaid, in 54 episodes of the show, which became a critical and popular success, earning seven Emmy Awards and a Peabody Award.
In a heartfelt statement, Lindsay-Hogg described Marsh as “wise and funny,” adding that she was “very pretty and kind, and talented both as an actress and writer.” He noted that she died peacefully in bed, looked after by one of her loving carers. The two had shared almost daily phone conversations for the past 40 years, highlighting the depth of their friendship.
Marsh's career spanned decades, with notable roles in films and television. Before her breakthrough role in “Upstairs, Downstairs,” she had appeared in various productions, including Alfred Hitchcock’s thriller “Frenzy,” the fantasy film “Willow,” and the classic series “Doctor Who,” where she played multiple characters from 1965 to 1989. Her performance as Queen Bavmorda in “Willow” remains one of her most memorable roles.
The idea for “Upstairs, Downstairs” emerged when Marsh and Atkins were house-sitting in the south of France. Inspired by their surroundings, they envisioned a drama that explored the dynamics between the upper class and their servants. The series not only captivated British audiences but also found a dedicated fanbase in the United States, where it aired on PBS beginning in 1974.
Marsh's portrayal of Rose Buck earned her an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series in 1975. The show’s success paved the way for a revival in 2010, where Marsh reprised her role, becoming the only original cast member to return for the continuation of the beloved series.
Throughout her career, Marsh received numerous accolades, including being appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2012 for her contributions to drama. She was also known for her roles in other significant television series, such as “Nine to Five,” “Grantchester,” and “The House of Eliott,” which she co-created with Atkins in the early 1990s.
Marsh's stage career was equally impressive, with performances in notable productions like “Much Ado About Nothing,” where she made her Broadway debut in 1959, and various plays in London, including “The Bird of Time” and “The Chalk Circle.” Her versatility as an actress allowed her to navigate between film, television, and stage with ease.
Despite her success, Marsh faced personal challenges, including a stroke in 2011 that forced her to scale back her acting commitments. Her resilience and passion for the arts remained evident throughout her life, as she continued to engage with her craft and her audience.
Marsh's legacy in the entertainment industry is profound, as she helped shape the landscape of British television with “Upstairs, Downstairs,” a series that not only entertained but also provided commentary on class relations in society. The show has been credited with influencing later series, such as “Downton Abbey,” which similarly explores the lives of aristocrats and their servants.
In her later years, Marsh expressed her enchantment with life and people, stating, “I’m enchanted by people. I look at them and think: ‘Oh, he’s bought a wonderful knobbly carrot.’ Everything I notice.” This perspective reflects her enduring curiosity and appreciation for the world around her.
Jean Marsh leaves behind a rich legacy as a pioneering actress, writer, and co-creator of one of television's most beloved series. Her contributions to the arts will be remembered, and her influence will continue to inspire future generations of performers.
