Celia Imrie has, over the years, carved out a truly remarkable career in both film and television, becoming one of those beloved figures whose presence in any modern romantic comedy feels almost essential. It’s hard to imagine a lighthearted British ensemble without Celia Imrie bringing her unique charm and comedic precision to the mix. And honestly, that kind of reputation didn’t come overnight—Celia worked her way up with dedication, talent, and an undeniable screen presence.
Early on, Celia Imrie made her mark in British television, appearing in classic series like Upstairs, Downstairs (ITV, 1971–75), which gave her early exposure to dramatic storytelling. From there, she transitioned into more comedic territory, notably in the cult favorite Victoria Wood: As Seen on TV (BBC Two, 1985–87), where Celia really began to showcase her versatility. Her ability to shift between humor and heartfelt drama set her apart, and it wasn’t long before bigger opportunities came knocking.
By the mid-1980s, Celia was already making appearances in notable films. She had a role in the fantasy hit Highlander (1986), which helped expand her reach beyond British audiences. Then came a pivotal moment: reuniting with Victoria Wood for the acclaimed TV movie Pat and Margaret (1994), part of the Screen One anthology series. That collaboration reminded everyone just how compelling Celia could be on screen, prompting a deeper dive into feature films.
The 1990s saw Celia Imrie stepping into higher-profile projects. She appeared in Kenneth Branagh’s bold adaptation Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein (1994), sharing the screen with Robert De Niro—an impressive feat for any actor. Not one to be typecast, she also starred in Branagh’s lesser-known but charming A Midwinter’s Tale (1995). Around the same time, she charmed family audiences in The Borrowers (1997), proving she could connect with viewers of all ages.
Then came Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace (1999), where Celia Imrie played a member of the Naboo fighter pilot corps—a small but memorable role in one of the most anticipated films of the decade. It was a testament to her growing status that she was included in such a massive production.
But it was Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001) that truly cemented Celia Imrie as a staple of contemporary British cinema. Her performance added just the right blend of wit and warmth, making her instantly recognizable in the rom-com world. Of course, she didn’t stop there—she went on to appear in other hits like Calendar Girls (2003), Wimbledon (2004), and Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason (2004), each time reinforcing her place in the genre.
Yet Celia never abandoned dramatic roles. In Wah-Wah (2005), a semi-autobiographical period drama, she delivered a powerful performance that reminded audiences of her depth as an actress. That same year, she balanced it with a delightful turn in Nanny McPhee, showing once again her range across tone and genre.
Celia also returned to television with recurring roles in popular British series like After You’ve Gone (BBC One, 2007–08) and Kingdom (ITV, 2007–09), further demonstrating her comfort and skill in serialized storytelling.
In the 2010s, Celia Imrie continued to thrive. She appeared in Woody Allen’s You Will Meet a Tall Dark Stranger (2010), and found renewed international acclaim in The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2012) and its sequel, The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2015). These films highlighted not only her comedic timing but also her ability to portray complex, evolving characters with grace and authenticity.
Born on July 15, 1952, in Guildford, Surrey, Celia Diane Savile Imrie trained at the Guildford School of Acting—a foundation that clearly served her well. From early supporting roles in films like House of Whipcord (1974) to leading parts in major international productions, Celia’s journey reflects a steady climb fueled by talent and resilience.
Today, Celia Imrie stands as one of Britain’s most respected and versatile actresses. Whether she’s delivering laughs or navigating emotional depth, Celia brings something special to every role. And honestly, you’d be hard-pressed to find a modern British comedy—or drama—where a Celia Imrie appearance wouldn’t make it just a little bit better.
When it comes to Celia Imrie’s career highlights, one film that really stands out is Hilary and Jackie from 1998—this happens to be her highest rated movie. Over the years, fans and critics alike have praised her performance in this critically acclaimed drama, which has certainly become a defining moment in Celia Imrie’s filmography. On the other hand, looking at the lower end of the spectrum, Nativity Rocks! (2018) tends to receive less favorable reviews, making it Celia Imrie’s lowest rated film to date. While it may not have resonated as strongly with audiences, it’s still part of the diverse range of roles that Celia Imrie has taken on throughout her career.