Joanna Lumley

Joanna Lumley (b. May 1, 1946) is an English actress, presenter, activist, and former model. Learn about her journey from British India to iconic television roles, her activism, and her most memorable quotes.

Introduction

Dame Joanna Lamond Lumley, born May 1, 1946, is a beloved English actress, presenter, activist, and former model. Her career spans over five decades, during which she has become best known to global audiences for her role as Patsy Stone in Absolutely Fabulous. But beyond her comedic flair lies a committed activist, a talented performer on stage and screen, and a voice for justice, animal rights, and environmental causes.

This article reveals Lumley’s early life, her ascent in entertainment, her activism, and her enduring influence—along with a selection of her witty and poignant quotes.

Early Life and Family

Joanna Lumley was born in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, in what was then British India.

Because of her father’s postings, Lumley spent her early years in the Far East, but was sent back to England to attend boarding school at age eight. Holmhust St Mary’s and other institutions.

At age 16, she applied to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) but was rejected.

Lumley’s upbringing—split between distant lands and boarding schools—gave her early exposure to cultural difference, adaptability, and a strong sense of self, all of which would inform her later roles and activism.

Career & Achievements

Lumley’s professional life is diverse and impactful, spanning modeling, television, film, voice work, and strong activism.

From Modeling to Acting

She began as a photographic model in the 1960s, working for figures like Brian Duffy, and appeared in magazines such as Vogue and Vanity Fair.

Her acting debut came in 1969 with small parts in films like Some Girls Do and a brief role in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service as part of the “Angels of Death.” Coronation Street, Are You Being Served?, The New Avengers, Sapphire & Steel, and many more.

Breakthrough: Absolutely Fabulous

Lumley achieved iconic status with the BBC sitcom Absolutely Fabulous (1992–2012), playing the outrageous, alcoholic, fashion-obsessed Patsy Stone opposite Jennifer Saunders. BAFTA TV Awards for this role and earned widespread recognition.

Stage, Film & Voice Work

Besides television, Lumley has appeared on stage—her Broadway role in La Bête earned her a Tony Award nomination in 2011. The Wolf of Wall Street, Ella Enchanted, The Cat’s Meow, James and the Giant Peach, and many more.

Her distinctive voice has made her a sought-after narrator and voice-over artist. She has also contributed extensively to documentary work and philanthropically driven media.

Activism & Public Engagement

Beyond entertainment, Lumley is deeply active in social and environmental causes:

• Gurkha Justice Campaign: She championed the right of Gurkha veterans (who served before 1997) to settle in the UK, helping bring about policy change.

• Indigenous Peoples & Tribal Rights: Lumley has supported Survival International, narrated Mine: Story of a Sacred Mountain, and advocated for tribal groups like the Dongria Kondha in India.

• Animal Welfare & Environment: She is patron or supporter of many animal rights and conservation groups, such as the Born Free Foundation, and has campaigned against habitat destruction and unsustainable practices.

• Charitable & Educational Institutions: The Lumley Research Fellowship at Green College, Oxford, was founded to support environmental and wildlife research.

Lumley’s activism is consistent with her beliefs: that fame brings responsibility, and public platforms can serve justice.

Personality & Influence

Joanna Lumley is widely liked for her wit, graciousness, expressive voice, and no-nonsense style. She is known to mix humor with social conscience, often using her public presence to amplify marginalized causes.

Her personality traits include:

• Courage & principle: She has taken public stances often at personal or professional risk (e.g., her Gurkha campaign).

• Fearlessness about aging: She has often spoken candidly about getting older, resilience, and self-acceptance.

• Curiosity & travel: She is a passionate traveler and observer, frequently citing that to know the world, one must go there—not just read about it.

• Humor & eccentricity: Her sayings about giraffes, social norms, clothes, and aging reveal a playful, irreverent spirit.

Moreover, in 2022, she was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for services to drama, charity, and entertainment.

Famous Quotes

Here are a selection of Joanna Lumley’s most memorable and insightful quotes:

“You only have one go at life, which is thrilling. Only you can make yourself into who you want to be. Don’t blame anybody else.” “I’ve never felt the constraints of social acceptability.” “Learn from nature. Stuff lives and stuff dies … so we should all seize life and make the most of what we have while we can.” “I was once kissed on the lips by a giraffe, and I don’t think I’ve ever got over it.” “Giraffes are completely tranquil — they have no predators as adults because there’s not an animal in the jungle stupid enough to go for them.” “I think we could jam a bit more in our coffins than we do … I’m going to have some books … some feathers and nice bits and pieces.” “The camera loves pretty girls and craggy, old character men more than … craggy, old character women … Work out how you can fit into it, and make that work.” “You have to feel more involved than just writing out a cheque. Charity is almost the wrong word — I think people are beginning to feel more responsible for the world.”

Lumley’s words mix humor, pragmatism, and moral vision—she often invites us to live with courage, kindness, and a dash of audacity.

Legacy & Cultural Impact

Joanna Lumley’s impact is felt across entertainment, activism, and public consciousness:

• She remains one of Britain’s most recognizable and beloved television personalities. Absolutely Fabulous still has a devoted fan base internationally.

• Her activism has had real policy impact, especially in the Gurkha veterans’ rights case, where her public advocacy helped influence government decisions.

• As a public figure who continues to speak on environmental, human rights, and animal welfare causes, she sets an example for how celebrity can be used responsibly.

• Her longevity and adaptability—from modeling to TV, film, stage, voice work, and activism—demonstrate her versatility and resilience in a changing media landscape.

Joanna Lumley personifies the idea that an artist’s life can transcend performance: she blends art, conscience, wit, and service.