Patricia Routledge's early life was marked by her family's transition from farming to haulage contracting, which took them from their roots in Sacriston, County Durham to Darlington. She began her education at a village school before attending Durham High School, followed by Darlington High School and Yarm Grammar School, where she developed a passion for drama under the guidance of her headmistress.
Routledge's talent was noticed by the aunt of director Anthony Asquith, who encouraged her to pursue a career in the performing arts. At the age of 17, she joined the Central School of Speech and Drama, making her theatre debut with the Ipswich Repertory Company and later appearing in West End productions such as "The Constant Wife," "Ride a Cock Horse," and "Peter Pan."
Her transition to television led to her becoming a household name, starring in popular series like "Butterflies," "Not in Front of the Children," "And Mother Makes Three," "Laura," "Disorder," and "Nanny," which was based on her own idea. Routledge submitted her work under a pen name to ensure it was judged on its own merit, rather than her celebrity status.
Throughout her career, Routledge has won numerous awards, including the Variety Club BBC TV Personality Award (1969),Variety Club ITV TV Personality Award (1973),TV Times Award for Funniest Woman on TV (1972-1974),and Variety Club Woman of the Year (1984). She was also honored with an Honorary Doctorate from Teesside University in 1994.
In her personal life, Routledge was married to journalist Jack Bentley, who passed away in 1994. Together, they had two sons, Alastair and Ross. Alastair, born in 1957, followed in his mother's footsteps, becoming an oboist with the Birmingham Royal Ballet, while Ross, born in 1960, pursued a career in writing.
