There’s something utterly magical about Celia Imrie, isn’t there? That twinkle in her eye, the perfectly-timed wit, and the ability to steal every scene she’s in – even when she’s got a tarantula perched on her bonce! As our favourite character actress turns 73 this year, we’re proper chuffed to celebrate her most brilliant big-screen moments.
Let’s kick off with a role that Imrie herself adores, despite it involving some rather unwanted co-stars. As Mrs. Quickly in Emma Thompson’s somewhat wobbly take on Nanny McPhee, she gave us comedy gold while dealing with both a tarantula hairpiece and a mouthful of worm. Talk about suffering for your art! Having caught this gem again recently during a rainy weekend marathon, I’d forgotten just how much fun she brings to what could’ve been a one-note character.
While many know her as the iconic Miss Babs from “Acorn Antiques” (Victoria Wood’s genius creation), Imrie has consistently proven she’s so much more than her comedy roots. Remember her sharp-tongued turn in “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel”? Pure class, that. And don’t get me started on her scene-stealing moments in “Bridget Jones’s Diary” – absolute perfection!
Now, as she prepares to dazzle us in next month’s adaptation of Richard Osman’s bestseller “The Thursday Murder Club”, Imrie’s showing no signs of slowing down. If anything, she’s hitting her stride. Having caught a sneak peek at the trailer (perks of the job!), I can tell you we’re in for something special.
While Miss Babs from “Acorn Antiques” remains her most recognizable TV role, her film career boasts standout performances in “Calendar Girls”, “The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel”, and “Bridget Jones’s Diary”.
Over her illustrious career, Imrie has appeared in more than 60 films, with roles ranging from scene-stealing supporting characters to leading performances.
The upcoming film adaptation follows four retirees who meet weekly to solve cold cases. Imrie stars alongside a stellar British cast in what’s set to be one of 2025’s most anticipated releases.
As Imrie enters her 73rd year, she’s showing the industry exactly how it’s done. With “The Thursday Murder Club” generating serious Oscar buzz (yes, really!), and several other projects in the pipeline, she’s proving that talent only gets better with age.
From braving creepy-crawlies as Mrs. Quickly to solving murders in her latest role, Celia Imrie continues to captivate audiences with her versatility and charm. Here’s to many more years of this national treasure lighting up our screens! Fancy sharing your favourite Celia moment? Drop us a comment below – we’d love to hear your picks!