Eileen Atkins – 87

Eileen Atkins came from humble beginnings and became one of the most successful and decorated actresses to cross the Atlantic. She is well known for her characters in Upstairs Downstairs and Doc Martin. Despite not being as well-known as rivals Judi Dench and Helen Mirren, Atkins excelled on stage. She received numerous honors and nominations, particularly for her transforming performances as novelist Virginia Woolf.

While the acting was still her bread and butter, Atkins used her writing skills to create memorable television shows. Her credits include Vita & Virginia and the well-regarded screenplay for Mrs. Dalloway. She maintained an unrivaled level of excellence throughout her career, amassing a stellar resume that led to her induction into the Theater Hall of Fame in 1998. Although her movie career has been relatively quiet compared to her stage work, Atkins has established herself as an actor with boundless enthusiasm and talent.