Celebrity Info
Margaret Tyzack truly embodies the essence of a classically trained British thespian. Her ability to carry herself with undeniable regality has made her a go-to actress for roles of queens and formidable matriarchs—more so, it seems, than many of her stage contemporaries. While she officially became part of the Royal Shakespeare Company in 1962, her presence on television began earlier, gracing a variety of sophisticated mini-series throughout the 1950s.
Over the years, Margaret Tyzack has remained a consistent and commanding figure in British television, particularly within the realm of playhouse programs and anthology series rooted in classical storytelling. One of her standout performances came in the form of the vengeful Bette in the “Masterpiece Theater” adaptation of Cousin Bette, a role that earned her an Emmy nomination. Although that recognition was notable, it hardly compares to the wealth of acclaim she has received on the stage.
Following her memorable portrayal of the powerful mother of an emperor in the iconic BBC mini-series I, Claudius—a production still hailed as one of the network’s greatest successes—Tyzack made the occasional foray into American television. She appeared in The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles, a series that leaned more toward education than action, playing the character of Jones’ composed and proper tutor. This role, along with her small but memorable appearances in Stanley Kubrick’s A Clockwork Orange and the visionary 2001: A Space Odyssey, has helped cement her recognition among American audiences.
Even as she advanced into the sixth decade of her career, Margaret Tyzack has remained active, making guest appearances on popular British series such as Midsomer Murders, a charming and picturesque procedural that continues to captivate viewers.
When it comes to Margaret Tyzack’s filmography, one standout performance that consistently earns high praise is her role in 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968), which remains her highest-rated movie to date. Fans and critics alike often highlight this iconic film as a defining moment in her career. On the other hand, among her body of work, The Legacy (1979) tends to receive more mixed or lower reviews, making it Margaret Tyzack’s least acclaimed project. While opinions may vary, it’s clear that Margaret Tyzack delivered memorable performances across different genres, with 2001: A Space Odyssey shining as her most celebrated contribution to cinema. Margaret Tyzack truly left a mark on the industry through roles like these.
United States
