Janet Maw was a truly remarkable British actress whose career flourished over an impressive span of more than thirty years. Born on August 8, 1948, in Nottingham, England, Janet Maw initially followed a different path—working as a nurse—before ultimately answering her true calling in the world of acting. She honed her craft at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, and by 1970, she made her professional stage debut, marking the beginning of what would become a distinguished artistic journey.

Over the years, Janet Maw built a reputation as a deeply talented and versatile performer, effortlessly transitioning between theatre, television, and film. On stage, she brought depth and nuance to a wide range of roles, particularly in classic works by playwrights like Shakespeare, Ibsen, and Chekhov. Among her standout performances were in productions such as The Country Wife, The Merchant of Venice, and The Seagull. In fact, her role in Dead Funny at the Vaudeville Theatre earned her the Clarence Derwent Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1991—an honor that truly reflected the respect she commanded in the theatrical community.

But Janet Maw wasn’t just a stage presence—she also became a familiar face on British television. Fans may remember her from popular series like Doctor Who, Holby City, and The Bill. One of her most iconic roles, however, was as Samantha Briggs in the BBC’s post-apocalyptic sci-fi drama Survivors, which aired from 1975 to 1977. The show, centered around a world devastated by a deadly virus, showcased Janet Maw’s ability to portray strength and resilience amid chaos, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.

Tragically, Janet Maw passed away on December 7, 2015, at the age of 67. While her time with us was limited, her impact on British performing arts remains profound. Her dedication, skill, and enduring presence across multiple platforms continue to be remembered and admired by colleagues and audiences alike.

When we consider her body of work and professional demeanor, it’s quite possible that Janet Maw embodied the ISFJ personality type—a common trait among those who excel in collaborative, detail-driven environments like theatre. ISFJs are known for their reliability, strong work ethic, and deep sense of responsibility—all qualities that likely played a role in Janet Maw’s success. These individuals often go above and beyond to support their teams, remembering small but meaningful details about others, which could explain how Janet Maw brought authenticity and emotional intelligence to her characters.

Additionally, ISFJs tend to value tradition and structure, making them naturally drawn to classical theatre—something clearly reflected in Janet Maw’s extensive repertoire. Their commitment to duty and precision would have served her well in mastering complex roles and maintaining consistency across long-running productions.

Now, looking at her through another psychological lens—the Enneagram—it’s interesting to note that Janet Maw may have been a Type Seven with a Six wing (7w6). This personality type is often full of energy, enthusiasm, and a love for new experiences. People like Janet Maw, who radiate optimism and spontaneity, often inspire those around them simply by their vibrant approach to life and work. Despite their playful nature, 7w6s are far from unserious—they know when to shift gears and focus on the task at hand, balancing creativity with discipline.

In essence, whether through her commanding stage presence or her compelling screen performances, Janet Maw consistently demonstrated the kind of passion, professionalism, and emotional depth that align closely with both the ISFJ temperament and the Enneagram 7w6 profile. While we can never know someone’s exact personality type with certainty, these frameworks offer a thoughtful way to appreciate the qualities that made Janet Maw such a respected and cherished figure in UK theatre and television.

And even today, long after her final curtain call, Janet Maw’s legacy continues to shine—proof that true artistry, dedication, and heart leave behind a story that never fades.