Joanna Lumley's Age In Ab Fab: A Look Back
The British sitcom Absolutely Fabulous, or Ab Fab as it’s affectionately known, remains a cultural touchstone for its outrageous humor and iconic characters. Joanna Lumley, who played the hard-drinking, chain-smoking Patsy Stone, was central to the show’s success. But how old was Joanna Lumley when she first graced our screens as the eternally youthful Patsy?
Unpacking Joanna Lumley's Age During Ab Fab
Joanna Lumley was born on May 1, 1946. Absolutely Fabulous first aired in 1992. This means that when the series premiered, Joanna Lumley was 46 years old. However, the show ran for several series and specials over many years, so her age evolved along with the character.
Age Progression Through the Series
- Series 1 (1992): 46 years old
- Series 2 (1994): 48 years old
- Series 3 (1995): 49 years old
- Series 4 (2001): 55 years old
- Series 5 (2003): 57 years old
- Specials (2004-2012): Ranging from 58 to 66 years old
- Film (2016): 70 years old
The Agelessness of Patsy Stone
One of the running jokes in Absolutely Fabulous is Patsy Stone's refusal to acknowledge her age. Her character is perpetually stuck in a state of youthful rebellion, despite clearly being old enough to know better. This played perfectly against Jennifer Saunders’ character, Edina Monsoon, creating a dynamic of denial and delusion that fueled much of the show’s comedy.
Joanna Lumley's Career Beyond Ab Fab
While Absolutely Fabulous is one of her most memorable roles, Joanna Lumley has had a long and distinguished career in film and television. Before Ab Fab, she was known for her role as Purdey in The New Avengers. After Ab Fab, she continued to work on various projects, including travel documentaries and voice acting roles.
Why It Matters
Understanding Joanna Lumley’s age during the run of Absolutely Fabulous provides context to her portrayal of Patsy Stone. It underscores the brilliance of her performance, capturing the essence of a woman desperately clinging to her youth. It’s a testament to Lumley's talent that she could embody such a character so convincingly over such a long period.
If you're a fan of Absolutely Fabulous, take a moment to appreciate the comedic genius of Joanna Lumley and her portrayal of the iconic Patsy Stone. Re-watching the series with this knowledge adds another layer of appreciation for her performance. Check out the series on BBC iPlayer and other streaming platforms. You can also explore interviews and behind-the-scenes content on YouTube to delve deeper into the making of this beloved show.
