British actress Prunella Scales, most famous for her role as the sharp-tongued Sybil Fawlty in the iconic comedy series “Fawlty Towers,” passed away at the age of 93 due to dementia, according to her children’s announcement on Tuesday. Scales, who had a distinguished acting career spanning nearly 70 years, peacefully departed at her London residence on Monday, as disclosed by her sons, Samuel and Joseph West. Despite her retirement from acting due to dementia, she remained at home, engaging with her work, such as watching episodes of “Fawlty Towers” until the day before her demise.
Scales’ career encompassed notable appearances in early films like the 1952 adaptation of “Pride and Prejudice” and the 1954 comedy “Hobson’s Choice,” along with roles in TV shows such as the 1960s sitcom “Marriage Lines.” In “Fawlty Towers,” she portrayed the frustrated yet dominating wife of the inept hotel proprietor Basil Fawlty, played by John Cleese. The show, created by Cleese and his then-wife Connie Booth, featured Scales alongside other memorable characters like Polly, played by Booth, and the Spanish waiter Manuel, portrayed by Andrew Sachs.
Despite only running for 12 episodes between 1975 and 1979, “Fawlty Towers” is considered a classic and one of the greatest British sitcoms of all time. The show later inspired stage adaptations, including a recent production in London’s renowned West End. Cleese, reflecting on Scales’ talent, described her as a brilliant comic actress and a kind individual, praising her impeccable performances in “Fawlty Towers.”
In addition to her role in “Fawlty Towers,” Scales took on various royal portrayals, such as Queen Elizabeth II in “A Question of Attribution” and Queen Victoria in the solo performance “An Evening with Queen Victoria.” Scales was married to actor Timothy West for 61 years until his passing in November 2024, and the couple shared a passion for travel and exploration, as showcased in their show “Great Canal Journeys,” which candidly portrayed Scales’s journey with dementia.
Scales leaves behind a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry, survived by her sons, stepdaughter, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her contributions to theatre, film, and television will be remembered by audiences worldwide.