Born:
September 24, 1950
Birthplace: London, England
Trivia:
Her uncle is Hammer Horror legend Sir Christopher Lee. Was made an associate artist of the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1987, and has worked with them consistently throughout her career. Is a patron of the charities Shakespeare Schools Festival and Prisoners Abroad. Is the great-great-great-granddaughter of John Walter, founder of The Times. Has published three books, including Other People's Shoes and Facing It. Was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2000, and Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) for services to drama in 2011. Her partner of eight years, actor Peter Blythe, died from lung cancer in 2004. Married American stage actor Guy Schuessler (stage name Guy Paul) in 2011. Dropped her trademark "cut glass" accent in favour of a grittier estuary English accent for her recurring role in Law And Order UK.