Three decades have passed since Keeping Up Appearances last aired, but the classic BBC sitcom continues to hold a special place in the hearts of millions. The tale of Hyacinth Bucket—sorry, “Bouquet”—and her tireless efforts to climb the social ladder was a staple of British television in the 1990s, drawing in 15 million viewers each week.
While the show delighted audiences with its over-the-top humor, actress Judy Cornwell, who played Daisy, recently revealed that the laughter extended far beyond the cameras.
Now 84, Cornwell remains fond of the sitcom, still receiving letters from fans who found themselves relating not just to Hyacinth’s social ambitions, but to the down-to-earth chaos of Daisy and Onslow’s lives. “People identified with their dynamic,” she said.
“Especially when Onslow panicked every time Daisy got randy, or when Daddy went cycling without his coat. It resonated with Brits because it showed how we all have to deal with family eccentricities.”
Judy Cornwell landed the role of Daisy thanks to the vision of BBC producer Harold Snoad, known for his work on other British sitcoms like Dad’s Army and Are You Being Served? When Snoad spotted Cornwell in The Dick Emery Show, he knew she would be perfect for the role.
“Harold picked me for Daisy, which was perfect,” she recalled. “I enjoyed playing her, and I worked with people I respected and liked.”
The chemistry between the cast was undeniable, with Dame Patricia Routledge (Hyacinth) leading the way. Cornwell admired Routledge’s theater background, which gave her a commanding presence as the self-proclaimed queen of social etiquette.
“Patricia was the perfect Hyacinth. She gave a brilliant performance and was surprised at how big the show became,” Cornwell shared.
Meanwhile, Clive Swift, who played Hyacinth’s long-suffering husband Richard, was known for his serious nature off-camera. Despite his more reserved personality, he played the perfect foil to Routledge’s domineering character.
Cornwell was closest to Geoffrey Hughes, who portrayed the lovable but lazy Onslow. The two formed an effortless comedic partnership that extended beyond the screen. She fondly recalled how their first scene together set the tone for their entire dynamic.
“We sat in bed, and it collapsed. Our legs flew in the air, and we rolled over each other. The audience was in hysterics, and it was hard to get them to calm down,” she said.
Much of the show’s magic came from the natural comedic timing of its cast, but some of the funniest moments weren’t scripted. Cornwell revealed that Hughes had a mischievous streak, often playing pranks on her during filming.
“He used to pinch my bottom under the covers and say rude things just before I had a line, making me giggle uncontrollably,” she said. “The audience must have wondered what was going on!”
In return, she made sure to get her revenge. “I used to kick him under the covers when he least expected it,” she laughed. Their real-life friendship extended beyond the show, with their families becoming close as well. “Geoffrey’s sense of humor was brilliant. He was loyal and fun, and we had a great ability to work fast together.”
Cornwell also played a significant role in shaping Daisy’s look. “I went down to the BBC wardrobe and found this awful grey cardigan, and I knew instantly that it was perfect,” she recalled. “I paired it with some raggedy sandals from home.”
Meanwhile, Hughes took pride in his character’s famously grubby vest, which was deliberately made dirtier before each shoot. “We used to throw sandwiches from catering on it to make it look even more lived-in,” she revealed.
Despite the show’s massive success, Keeping Up Appearances ended in 1995 when Patricia Routledge moved on to star in Hetty Wainthropp Investigates. According to Cornwell, there were no hard feelings. “There was no bitterness or ill feeling. We all wanted to do other things.”
The show’s lasting popularity led the BBC to develop a potential spin-off centered around Daisy and Onslow. Two U.S. specials were made, featuring clips from the original show, but the idea never took off.
Looking back, Cornwell is relieved that no official reboot was attempted. “It would probably seem false if you saw other people playing these characters,” she said. “It was a magical moment, and I’m glad it has remained untouched.”
Even though the show has long since ended, its legacy lives on. Keeping Up Appearances continues to be broadcast in over 100 countries, proving that its humor remains timeless. Cornwell believes that the show’s enduring appeal is rooted in its authenticity.
“The way it portrayed class, family, and relationships was something people connected with. And of course, everyone loved the ridiculousness of it all.”
Beyond Keeping Up Appearances, Cornwell has had a long and fulfilling career in film, television, and writing. She starred in Hollywood productions like Santa Claus: The Movie and authored several books, including a memoir titled Adventures of a Jelly Baby.
These days, Cornwell enjoys a quiet life in Brighton with her husband, former Fleet Street journalist John Cornwell. The couple is set to celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary this year—a love story that rivals even Daisy’s relentless affection for Onslow.
“I have had such a great career,” she reflected. “Keeping Up Appearances was a highlight, and I’m so glad it is loved to this day.”
As audiences continue to rediscover the show, its mix of British eccentricity, social satire, and slapstick humor ensures that Hyacinth and her chaotic world will never be forgotten.
