Dame Joan Plowright has died at the age of 95, her family have confirmed.

The Golden Globe winning actress, who was married to Laurence Olivier from 1961 until his death in 1989, was best known for her roles in Dennis the Menace, The Entertainer and 101 Dalmatians.

A statement released by her family read: “It is with great sadness that the family of Dame Joan Plowright, the Lady Olivier, inform you that she passed away peacefully on January 16 2025 surrounded by her family at Denville Hall aged 95.

“She enjoyed a long and illustrious career across theatre, film and TV over seven decades until blindness made her retire. She cherished her last 10 years in Sussex with constant visits from friends and family, filled with much laughter and fond memories.

“The family are deeply grateful to Jean Wilson and all those involved in her personal care over many years.

“Joan is survived by her loving family: Tamsin and Wilf, Julie-Kate and Dan, Richard, Shelley, Troy, Ali, Jeremy, step-granddaughter and great granddaughter Kaya and Sophia, and great grand-daughter soon to arrive.

“The family ask you to please respect their request for privacy at this time. We are so proud of all Joan did and who she was as a loving and deeply inclusive human being.

“She survived her many challenges with Plowright grit and courageous determination to make the best of them, and that she certainly did. Rest in peace, Joan…”

Devastated fans have also been paying tribute online, with one writing: “RIP Dame Joan Plowright. An absolute icon.”

Someone else echoed: “Acting legend Dame Joan Plowright dies at 95. She was a brilliant actress & she will be badly missed by friends & her family.”

Many fans pointed to a hilarious video featuring Joan alongside the late Dame Maggie Smith and acting legend Dame Judi Dench as they giggled together.

Over the course of her career, Joan took home two Golden Globes and a Tony award, as well as being nominated for an Oscar, two BAFTAs and an Emmy.

Born in Lincolnshire, she was married twice – first to Roger Gage and then to Laurence Olivier. She had three children.