Joanna Lumley reveals why she’s still unstoppable at 80
The veteran British actress says she remains committed to her career and open to revisiting iconic roles, as audiences continue to celebrate her decades-long impact on television and film.
Joanna Lumley is marking her 80th birthday by insisting she has no intention of slowing down.
The Absolutely Fabulous star hit the milestone on Friday (01.05.26) and has declared she remains as driven as ever to keep working.
Best known for her role as the hard-drinking, chain-smoking Patsy Stone in the 1990s sitcom Absolutely Fabulous, the actress stressed she is focused firmly on the future rather than reflecting on her age.
Joanna told the Daily Mirror: “I am very lucky to have been and continue to be a busy girl. Long may that continue!”
Her career began in modelling before she moved into acting, later becoming widely recognised for roles including Purdey in The New Avengers, a Bond girl in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service and appearances in Sapphire and Steel.
Despite this range, it is her portrayal of Patsy that has left a lasting global impression.
Joanna said: “To this day, wherever I go in the world, there is always a gaggle of Patsy fans, often dolled up to the nines and looking terribly glamorous. Very few females. Mostly men!”
She added: “Isn't that great?”
Joanna’s association with Patsy has remained strong, with the character continuing to attract fans decades after Absolutely Fabulous aired.
The role, alongside Jennifer Saunders as her lifelong pal Edina, defined the show’s success and cultural legacy.
Joanna also reflected on her approach to ageing and appearance, stating she does not criticise those who choose cosmetic procedures.
She said: “If it's there and you can afford it darling, go for it. Seriously. If your teeth are bad, get them seen to. If you want the wrinkles removed, go for it. If you feel better for it, then do it. It's absolutely OK with me!”
Her personal life includes her marriage to orchestral conductor Stephen Barlow, who she described as “wonderful”, and her role as a mother to photographer Jamie.
Joanna has also maintained a long-standing public presence beyond acting, including her campaigning work on behalf of Gurkha veterans and her travel documentaries exploring destinations such as the Silk Road, Japan and the Nile.
She said: “I've never wanted to be known as, 'That b***** woman who's always jetting off all over the place!'”
Her television career has also included appearances on programmes such as The Morecambe and Wise Show, on which she worked with Eric Morecambe and Ernie Wise, as well as roles in Coronation Street alongside William Roache.
Joanna said: “Oh, Eric and Ernie were wonderful. The hardest thing when working with them was to keep a straight face during the supposed serious bits.”
She added: “I think everyone should appear in Coronation Street at least once. I cherish my scenes with Bill Roache.”
Despite her long career, Joanna indicated she would still return to one of her most famous roles if the opportunity arose.
She said: “If Jennifer told me tomorrow that she'd written the scripts (for a new Absolutely Fabulous series), I'd jump at the chance.
“Any actress who said she wouldn't is lying through her teeth!”
