A neighbour of Dame Joanna Lumley has shared a charming anecdote about the Absolutely Fabulous star, revealing that she is always polite and gracious when greeted on the street.
Neighbour's Account
Speaking on Vernon Kay's BBC Radio 2 show, a gardener named Heather recounted her encounters with the actress, who turns 80 today (May 1). Heather said: 'She lives round the corner from me in London. When she walks along our street, I always give her a wave and say 'hello'. She always responds with a wave and a dazzling smile. Tremendous human being.'
Vernon Kay responded: 'She has that hazy aura around her, you know what I mean? She was extremely courteous when she came in and did Tracks Of My Years. Very nice and always interested in you as opposed to 'I'm Joanna Lumley'. Fabulous.'
Career Reflections
As Dame Joanna approaches her 80th birthday, she has been reflecting on her extensive career, which spans multiple decades and includes roles in Absolutely Fabulous, Wednesday, The Wolf of Wall Street, James and the Giant Peach, Coronation Street, and Ella Enchanted. She also appeared in the James Bond film On Her Majesty's Secret Service and Channel 4's Car SOS.
In an interview with The Telegraph, Dame Joanna expressed surprise at the attention surrounding her birthday. 'It's extraordinary, isn't it? I've been saying I'm 80 for the last two or three years because I thought I was, but I wasn't. People are making a big hoo-ha about this 80, as if I'm somehow going to be different, as if some huge precipice is being reached. I'll be working on my birthday. I'm thrilled and I'm touched that people have remembered and think about it more than I do.'
Secrets to Longevity
When asked about the key to her continued career, Dame Joanna told The i that uncertainty keeps her vibrant. 'Having no certainty keeps you vibrant and engaged. You're always trying something new.'
She also opened up about her marriage to husband Stephen Barlow, as they prepare to celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary. Speaking to Yours magazine, she emphasised the importance of independence and respect. 'I go off on trips and I do stuff and film. He goes off and does operas and things. But I think one of the first things you've got to have with whoever you marry, who is going to be your chosen companion, is respect. You've got to think the world of them.'
