The nation is in mourning today after the heartbreaking news that legendary actress Pauline Collins has passed away at the age of 85.

The beloved star of Shirley Valentine, Upstairs, Downstairs, and countless other stage and screen classics, died peacefully last night (November 6) in her London care home, surrounded by her family. Pauline had been living with Parkinson’s disease for several years.

During today’s episode of This Morning (November 7), presenters Dermot O’Leary and Alison Hammond paused their live broadcast to pay an emotional tribute to the Oscar-nominated actress — a woman who defined British cinema and theatre for over six decades. 🌹

🎭 A Legacy of Strength, Wit, and Heart

In a statement released by her family, Pauline was remembered as “so many things to so many people — a bright, sparky, witty presence on stage and screen.”

“Her illustrious career saw her play politicians, mothers, and queens,” the family said. “But she will always be remembered as the iconic, strong-willed, vivacious, and wise Shirley Valentine — a role she made entirely her own.”

Pauline died at age 85 (Credit: SplashNews.com)

“She could not have had a more peaceful goodbye. We hope you will remember her at the height of her powers — joyful, full of energy, and magic.”

The family also asked for privacy as they begin to “contemplate a life without her.”

💔 “Sad News” on This Morning

As the cameras rolled live on ITV, Dermot O’Leary’s tone softened as he interrupted the show’s Morning View segment to deliver the news to viewers.

“Some very sad news to share this morning,” he said, looking visibly moved. “The wonderful actress Pauline Collins has passed away, aged 85.”

Co-host Alison Hammond and guest Gyles Brandreth joined him in remembering the late star.

Gyles, clearly emotional, reflected on Pauline’s extraordinary career:

“She was up for an Oscar, a Golden Globe — a really strong, fascinating, and yes, feisty woman. A fantastic actress with a brilliant mind and heart.”

He went on to encourage viewers to revisit Pauline’s body of work, describing her performances as “timeless, joyful, and deeply human.”

After a short silence, Alison softly added:

Alison and Dermot spoke about the ‘sad’ news (Credit: ITV)

“Pauline Collins died peacefully at 85. Our thoughts are with her friends and family.”

🌹 A Star Who Defined Generations

Pauline Collins’s impact on British entertainment cannot be overstated. Her portrayal of Shirley Valentine — the ordinary woman who dares to rediscover herself — became one of the most celebrated performances in film history.

Her iconic monologues, both heartwarming and heartbreaking, resonated with millions of women who saw themselves in her character’s courage and vulnerability.

Beyond her Oscar-nominated role, Pauline’s career spanned stage, television, and film — from Upstairs, Downstairs to Doctor Who, to West End productions that cemented her as one of Britain’s finest dramatic talents.

She was also admired for her warmth and humility off-screen — a woman who, despite her fame, remained deeply connected to her craft and her family.

🕊️ “So Joyful, So Full of Energy”

Friends, colleagues, and fans have flooded social media with tributes, calling Pauline “a national treasure,” “a powerhouse,” and “the beating heart of British drama.”

“Her performances made you laugh, cry, and think — sometimes all at once,” one fan wrote. “She had a magic no one could imitate.”

Another tribute read:

“There was only one Pauline Collins — elegant, passionate, and utterly unforgettable.”

As This Morning closed its segment, Alison and Dermot summed up what many across Britain are feeling today — a sense of loss mixed with immense gratitude.

“We’ve lost one of the greats,” Dermot said. “But her spirit — and her work — will live forever.”

🌹 Rest in peace, Pauline Collins.
A woman of strength, laughter, and boundless grace — your legacy will forever shine on the screen, and in our hearts. 💫