British actress and host Penelope Keith has passed away at the age of 86 on Monday, June 29, 2026. Her family confirmed the news of her death, saying she died peacefully at her home in Surrey, where she lived for more than 50 years.
The acclaimed TV star, known for her roles in The Good Life and To the Manor Born, was suffering from cancer. However, the official cause of death has not been revealed yet.
In a statement, Keith’s family thanked her fans and supporters for the “care and support” the actress received during her treatments.
“The family asks that their privacy be respected at this time,” the statement read.
She became a household name due to her iconic roles in 1970s sitcoms, including her portrayal of Margo Leaderbetter in The good life and her role as Audrey fforbes-Hamilton in To the Manor Born.
In addition to her role in the entertainment industry as an actress, Keith also notably hosted the 1988 series of the panel game show What is my line?
Tributes started pouring in as soon as news of her death broke. Her co-star on The Good Life, Felicity Kendal described the late veteran actress as a “comic genius who was a joy to know and work with.”
Acclaimed comedian and presenter Sue Perkins paid a heartfelt tribute, saying: “Keith was the creator of some of the greatest sitcom characters of all time.”
