Barbara Windsor, a legendary British actress and entertainer captivated audiences with her infectious energy, charm, and wit for over six decades. Known for her iconic roles in the “Carry On” film series and the popular television soap opera “EastEnders,” Windsor left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. In this post, we delve into the life and career of Barbara Windsor, highlighting her many accomplishments and exploring her enduring legacy as a beloved British icon.
Early Life and Beginnings in Show Business
Born Barbara Ann Deeks on August 6, 1937, in Shoreditch, London, Windsor grew up in a working-class family. Her father, John Deeks, was a bus conductor, while her mother, Rose, was a dressmaker. From a young age, Windsor showed a passion for performing and began taking dance lessons at the age of 13.
Windsor entered show business in 1950 when she joined the Aida Foster School, a prestigious stage school in London. She made her stage debut in 1952 as a chorus girl in the West End “Love from Judy” production and performed in various other stage productions throughout the 1950s. Windsor also began working in film, with her first role in the 1954 crime drama “The Belles of St. Trinian’s.”
The “Carry On” Series and Stardom
Windsor’s career took a significant turn in 1964 when she landed her first role in the British comedy film series “Carry On.” She appeared in nine “Carry On” films from 1964 to 1974, including “Carry On Spying,” “Carry On Doctor,” and “Carry On Camping.” Windsor quickly became one of the series’ most popular stars, beloved for her vivacious personality, comic timing, and distinctive laugh.
The “Carry On” films showcased Windsor’s exceptional comedic talent and made her a household name in the UK. Her portrayal of spirited, cheeky, and often flirtatious characters endeared her to audiences and solidified her status as a national treasure.
Television Success and “EastEnders”
In addition to her film career, Windsor found great success on television. She made numerous guest appearances on popular British shows like “Dixon of Dock Green,” “Worzel Gummidge,” and “The Rag Trade.” However, it was her role as Peggy Mitchell in the long-running BBC soap opera “EastEnders” that brought her a new level of fame and recognition.
Windsor joined the cast of “EastEnders” in 1994, playing the feisty, no-nonsense landlady of the Queen Victoria pub. Her character quickly became a fan favorite, and Windsor received numerous awards for her portrayal of Peggy, including the British Soap Award for Best Actress in 1999. Windsor remained on “EastEnders” until 2016, making occasional guest appearances until her character’s poignant exit storyline, which saw Peggy succumbing to cancer.
Theatre Work and Other Accomplishments
Windsor maintained a strong presence in the theatre throughout her career, starring in various West End productions and touring shows. Some of her notable stage credits include “Fings Ain’t Wot They Used T’Be,” “Oh, What a Lovely War!”, “Come Spy with Me,” and “Entertaining Mr. Sloane.”
In 2010, Windsor was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the British Soap Awards, recognizing her contributions to the world of soap operas. She also received a Special Recognition Award at the National Television Awards in 2015 for her outstanding.
Personal Life and Relationships
Despite her energetic on-screen persona, Barbara Windsor’s life was marked by tumultuous relationships and marriages. She was married three times, each union bringing its own unique set of challenges and heartache.
Windsor’s first marriage was to Ronnie Knight, a small-time criminal with links to the infamous Kray twins, in 1964. Their tempestuous relationship was marred by infidelity, and the couple eventually divorced in 1985 after 21 years of marriage. Windsor later admitted that her involvement with Knight had been a mistake and that her attraction to “bad boys” had caused her significant pain and heartbreak.
In 1986, Windsor married her second husband, Stephen Hollings, a chef and restaurateur. The couple opened a pub together in Buckinghamshire, but their business venture ultimately failed, and they faced financial ruin. Their marriage also deteriorated, and the couple divorced in 1995.
Windsor found lasting love and happiness with her third husband, Scott Mitchell, a former actor and recruitment consultant. The couple married on April 8, 2000, in a private ceremony attended by close friends and family. Mitchell, who was 26 years younger than Windsor, proved to be a steadfast and devoted partner, supporting her through the ups and downs of her later life and career.
Although Windsor never had any biological children, she was known to have a close relationship with her stepson, Kevin, from her marriage to Ronnie Knight. She referred to Kevin as her “adopted son” and maintained a strong bond with him throughout her life.
Health Struggles and Passing
In 2014, Barbara Windsor was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, a progressive neurological disorder affecting memory, thinking, and behavior. She and her husband, Scott, kept the diagnosis private for several years, but in 2018, they went public with the news to raise awareness and support for Alzheimer’s research.
Windsor’s health continued to decline over the next few years, and in 2020, she was moved to a care home as her condition worsened. On December 10, 2020, Barbara Windsor passed away at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, love, and dedication to her craft.
