Age: 79years old.
Daughter of George L & Iris Mary (Williams) Baker. [both born in Wales.]
Both parents occupations were in medicine. George worked as an administrator for 3 Norfolk hospitals, while Iris worked as a nursing matron in the same area.
1939 George & Iris were married at Swansea, Glamorganshire, Wales.
Ruth's parents were constantly travelling around England due to George's job. After WW2, Britain was left with a housing & health crisis. He was heavily involved in the progression of the new NHS 'welfare state offering free healthcare', which was established on the 5th July 1948, in England.
Ruth was therefore brought up in Llansamlet, a coalmining village near Swansea, Southwest Wales by her Welsh grandmother Etta (Henrietta) Evans and her English grandfather John Williams until she was 15years old.
She was also grand-daughter of Walter & Margaret Baker.
Ruth was assistant stage manager at Nottingham Playhouse for a short time before her training commenced at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), London, England, UK.
This is where Ruth progressed in imitating other character voices.
c1961 - 1981 Married: Philip Madoc (actor).
1982 Married: John Jackson.
Ruth has 2 children.
2006 Ruth awarded an honorary degree by Swansea University.
(A fellow of the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama).
Ruth & her husband John lived in 'the mountains, in Glynneath, South Wales (Glamorgan) & always considers herself as Welsh.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Hello campers.., Hi-de-Hi!"
A Welsh Icon & British National Treasure!
A British actress and singer Ruth Madoc's career covered an array of roles in theatre and musicals as well as releasing songs like Look Into Your Heart, Tevye's Dream & Happy Talk.
[Ruth didn't actually speak with a strong Welsh accent, even though many of her characters portrayed her with it.]
As an actress & singer, for about 3 years she worked on The Black and White Minstrel Show & a summer season in 'Fol-de-Rols', another music hall company.
1968: 'She made her musical acting debut in 1968 playing 'Maria' in Scarborough Summer Theatre's production of West Side Story at the Open Air theatre, followed later that year by her first West End role, taking over as Aldonza in the original London production of Man of La Mancha (Piccadilly theatre).'
(Suggested by: 'Scarborough Summer Theatre' - Dec 2022).
After her break-out role in 1971 playing Fruma Sarah in the film version of the musical Fiddler On The Roof, her career spanned to performances including Under Milk Wood in 1972 playing Mrs Dai Bread Two with Richard Burton; Poems and Pints on BBC Wales & Gypsy playing Mama Rose.
1970's: On the "Cadbury's Smash potato's" tv commercial 'For Mash - get Smash!' she was one of the 'alien' voices for the advert.
1973-1976: Ruth played the Schoolteacher character Betty & wife of detective sergeant 'Smithy' Smith (Ewan Hooper) in all three series of the Midlands police drama Hunter's Walk.
1.1.1980: Ruth was best known and so loved for her iconic performance on BBC1's family comedy
Hi-de-Hi. 9series/60 episodes were filmed until the final on 30.1.1988.
The programme was based on a job experience by one of it's writers Jimmy Perry.
After he was demobilised from the Army Jimmy became a Redcoat at Butlins in Filey, North Yorkshire, England and Pwllheli, Wales during the holiday season.
Described as "Fun and frolics at a branch of Maplin's Holiday Camp where the guests are the last thing on the mind of the staff."
Ruth received a BAFTA TV award nomination for Best Light Entertainment Performance.
She shined on our screens as 'Chief Yellowcoat/Sports Organiser/Radio Maplin Announcer' Gladys Pugh at 1959/60's Maplin's Holiday Camp at Crimpton-on-Sea, England, 1 of 6 sites owned by boss Joe Maplin.
She performed with fellow actors including Paul Shane as Ted Bovis, Camp Host & his sidekick & 'chalet sharer' Spike Dixon the site comic played by Jeffrey Holland; lovely Su Pollard as Peggy Ollerenshaw the Chalet-Maid dreaming of becoming a 'Yellowcoat'; Simon Cadell as Archaeology Professor Jeffrey Fairbrother, Entertainments Manager & the object of Gladys Pugh's unreciprocated passionate affections & upon his departure Glady's attentions turned to reckless Squadron Leader Clive Dempster; Leslie Dwyer as William Partridge the Children's Entertainer who didn't like children, etc, etc., all who may have started as colleagues but with Ruth's infectious fun & loving character soon became her many on/off screen friends for many years.
The only thing the hilarious Glady's loved more than 'Jeffrey or Clive' was the camp Tannoy 'Radio Maplin' system where she would address the holiday 'campers' with the days itinerary. At the start & end of her announcements she would hit 3 notes on her mini xylophone., followed by "Hello campers., Hi-de-Hi!" In between chimes, Gladys would announce the days itinerary including the "Knobbly knees contest" a regular & popular event at the camp.
Hi-de-Hi! was one of Britain's most popular catchphrases.
1984: Ruth surprised by the legendary Eamonn Andrews appeared on This Is Your Life & being presented at the end of the show with the famous 'big red book' & "Ruth Madoc, This Is Your Life!"
c2004: Ruth starred as mother of the Welsh character Daffyd Thomas played by Matt Lucas in Little Britain.
2008: Starred in the show Annie as the bad-tempered orphanage manager, Miss Hannigan.
Also played the Bad Fairy in the pantomime 'Sleeping Beauty at the Pavilion Theatre, Rhyl, Denbighshire, Wales.
Also appearing in Belfast & 7th-11th November at Londonderry, Derry City in Ireland performing the theatrics at The Millennium Forum in Newmarket Street.
2015: Ruth played the Fairy Godmother in the pantomime 'Cinderella' at the Palace Theatre at Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, England.
Ruth Madoc a great lover of theatre & musicals performed in over 30 shows around the world including Phantom of the Opera. Also playing Dick Whittington in theatre at Edinburgh City, Scotland.
2018: Starring alongside fellow performers including Coleen Nolan, Victoria Derbyshire & Michelle Heaton, to raise awareness about breast cancer, Ruth overcame her fears to reveal her breasts to a live audience in the ladies' version of The Real Full Monty.
The ladies performed a dance to The Greatest Showman's "This Is Me!".
She has also starred in TV programmes such as BBC's Doctors & hit show Benidorm playing Rhiannon, also on stage with Calendar Girls (the play and the musical).
Plus recent acclaim in short films Skinny Fat and Cardiff starring with writer/director Matthew David who also plays the main role.
December 2022: Ruth had to cancel her performance in this years Christmas pantomime Aladdin at the Princess Theatre, Torquay, Devon, South West England alongside Ricky Norwood (Fatboy in soap Eastenders), due to her injuries following a fall earlier this week.
Ruth was also looking forward to a future role next year in 2023 on The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel alongside Belinda Lang & Paul Nicholas on a UK theatre tour.
~
TRIBUTES PAID in respect:-
Of Ruth's many friends tributes, the love of a legend shines through just how well loved & inspirational she was to all:-
Actor and writer Sir Tony Robinson, infamous Blackadder actor Baldrick & presenter of archaeological series Time Team:
"So sad to hear my lovely friend Ruth Madoc has passed.
She was not only funny and highly intelligent, she was smart, kindly, a loyal trade unionist, and wore her heart on the left. She'll be much missed."
*
Matt Lucas and David Walliams
"We are both shocked and saddened to hear about the passing of Ruth Madoc.
We grew up watching her iconic and genius performance as Gladys Pugh in 'Hi-De-Hi' and were thrilled when she agreed to come on board 'Little Britain' as Daffyd's mum.
She was brilliant in the show and an absolute delight to work with.
We send our love and condolences to her family x David and Matt."
*
Les Dennis, comedian & former Family Fortunes presenter:
"So very sad to hear that lovely Ruth Madoc has passed away.
She was such a talented and lovely woman."
*
Actor Joe McGann paid tribute:
"Such sad news about the amazing Ruth Madoc.
I was lucky enough to work with her more than once and I loved the bright, skilful, funny, fearless, kind, and inspiring ball of light that she always was."
*
Screenwriter Russell T Davies:-
"She starred as Myrtle in a series I wrote called Mine All Mine, and she was an absolute delight."
Describing Ruth as "funny, kind, salty, shrewd and beautifully uncynical"
*
Comedian Paul Chuckle:
"Just heard the very sad news RIP to the lovely Ruth Madoc.
I've worked with her several times, including an episode of BBC1's Doctors … she will be greatly missed."
*
Jon Petrie, BBC director of comedy:
"We are saddened to hear the news about Ruth Madoc.
She was a true star of stage and screen and her comedy performances were adored by the nation."
*
Phil Belfield of talent agency Belfield & Ward Ltd:
"A real legend of the British entertainment scene, she was one of a kind and a unique talent loved by many. She is gone far too soon. Our hearts are broken!"
*
Gyles Brandreth, former MP, now Broadcaster, writer & reporter on BBC's The One Show:
"This is such sad news. Ruth was a very lovely person." He remembered her for being a 'wonderfully gifted actress.'
"I was lucky enough to get to know her through my best friend from school, Simon Cadell, In Hi-De-Hi they were irresistible.
RIP Ruth Madoc & thanks for the memories. Goodbye campers!"
~
2019: Ruth fell & broke her hip while rehearsing for her role in Calendar Girls, but confounded doctors with her speedy recovery.
Friday, 9th December 2022: Ruth was rushed to hospital after an accident earlier this week.
This afternoon in hospital following surgery after the fall, Ruth Madoc fell asleep.
Torquay, England.
*
Funeral on Monday, 16th January 2023.
The service was at St David's church in Neath at 12:00pm (noon) where hundreds of mourners paid their last respects.
In a message to the late actress, Su Pollard said: "Ruth darling, we're outside the church and I'm thinking of you and sending lots of love like we all are".
Su added: "I hope she'll be remembered as somebody that was a positive influence, someone that enjoyed herself, she made a difference you know, because she was very clever."
It was followed by interment at Glynneath Cemetery at 1.30p.m.
Donations, if desired, to Sight Life Wales for whom Ruth was Patron.
~~~~~~~~~~~
Ho-de-Ho! to our beloved Ruth Madoc, our National Treasure.
[Bio by: Linda McKinney]
Daughter of George L & Iris Mary (Williams) Baker. [both born in Wales.]
Both parents occupations were in medicine. George worked as an administrator for 3 Norfolk hospitals, while Iris worked as a nursing matron in the same area.
1939 George & Iris were married at Swansea, Glamorganshire, Wales.
Ruth's parents were constantly travelling around England due to George's job. After WW2, Britain was left with a housing & health crisis. He was heavily involved in the progression of the new NHS 'welfare state offering free healthcare', which was established on the 5th July 1948, in England.
Ruth was therefore brought up in Llansamlet, a coalmining village near Swansea, Southwest Wales by her Welsh grandmother Etta (Henrietta) Evans and her English grandfather John Williams until she was 15years old.
She was also grand-daughter of Walter & Margaret Baker.
Ruth was assistant stage manager at Nottingham Playhouse for a short time before her training commenced at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), London, England, UK.
This is where Ruth progressed in imitating other character voices.
c1961 - 1981 Married: Philip Madoc (actor).
1982 Married: John Jackson.
Ruth has 2 children.
2006 Ruth awarded an honorary degree by Swansea University.
(A fellow of the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama).
Ruth & her husband John lived in 'the mountains, in Glynneath, South Wales (Glamorgan) & always considers herself as Welsh.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Hello campers.., Hi-de-Hi!"
A Welsh Icon & British National Treasure!
A British actress and singer Ruth Madoc's career covered an array of roles in theatre and musicals as well as releasing songs like Look Into Your Heart, Tevye's Dream & Happy Talk.
[Ruth didn't actually speak with a strong Welsh accent, even though many of her characters portrayed her with it.]
As an actress & singer, for about 3 years she worked on The Black and White Minstrel Show & a summer season in 'Fol-de-Rols', another music hall company.
1968: 'She made her musical acting debut in 1968 playing 'Maria' in Scarborough Summer Theatre's production of West Side Story at the Open Air theatre, followed later that year by her first West End role, taking over as Aldonza in the original London production of Man of La Mancha (Piccadilly theatre).'
(Suggested by: 'Scarborough Summer Theatre' - Dec 2022).
After her break-out role in 1971 playing Fruma Sarah in the film version of the musical Fiddler On The Roof, her career spanned to performances including Under Milk Wood in 1972 playing Mrs Dai Bread Two with Richard Burton; Poems and Pints on BBC Wales & Gypsy playing Mama Rose.
1970's: On the "Cadbury's Smash potato's" tv commercial 'For Mash - get Smash!' she was one of the 'alien' voices for the advert.
1973-1976: Ruth played the Schoolteacher character Betty & wife of detective sergeant 'Smithy' Smith (Ewan Hooper) in all three series of the Midlands police drama Hunter's Walk.
1.1.1980: Ruth was best known and so loved for her iconic performance on BBC1's family comedy
Hi-de-Hi. 9series/60 episodes were filmed until the final on 30.1.1988.
The programme was based on a job experience by one of it's writers Jimmy Perry.
After he was demobilised from the Army Jimmy became a Redcoat at Butlins in Filey, North Yorkshire, England and Pwllheli, Wales during the holiday season.
Described as "Fun and frolics at a branch of Maplin's Holiday Camp where the guests are the last thing on the mind of the staff."
Ruth received a BAFTA TV award nomination for Best Light Entertainment Performance.
She shined on our screens as 'Chief Yellowcoat/Sports Organiser/Radio Maplin Announcer' Gladys Pugh at 1959/60's Maplin's Holiday Camp at Crimpton-on-Sea, England, 1 of 6 sites owned by boss Joe Maplin.
She performed with fellow actors including Paul Shane as Ted Bovis, Camp Host & his sidekick & 'chalet sharer' Spike Dixon the site comic played by Jeffrey Holland; lovely Su Pollard as Peggy Ollerenshaw the Chalet-Maid dreaming of becoming a 'Yellowcoat'; Simon Cadell as Archaeology Professor Jeffrey Fairbrother, Entertainments Manager & the object of Gladys Pugh's unreciprocated passionate affections & upon his departure Glady's attentions turned to reckless Squadron Leader Clive Dempster; Leslie Dwyer as William Partridge the Children's Entertainer who didn't like children, etc, etc., all who may have started as colleagues but with Ruth's infectious fun & loving character soon became her many on/off screen friends for many years.
The only thing the hilarious Glady's loved more than 'Jeffrey or Clive' was the camp Tannoy 'Radio Maplin' system where she would address the holiday 'campers' with the days itinerary. At the start & end of her announcements she would hit 3 notes on her mini xylophone., followed by "Hello campers., Hi-de-Hi!" In between chimes, Gladys would announce the days itinerary including the "Knobbly knees contest" a regular & popular event at the camp.
Hi-de-Hi! was one of Britain's most popular catchphrases.
1984: Ruth surprised by the legendary Eamonn Andrews appeared on This Is Your Life & being presented at the end of the show with the famous 'big red book' & "Ruth Madoc, This Is Your Life!"
c2004: Ruth starred as mother of the Welsh character Daffyd Thomas played by Matt Lucas in Little Britain.
2008: Starred in the show Annie as the bad-tempered orphanage manager, Miss Hannigan.
Also played the Bad Fairy in the pantomime 'Sleeping Beauty at the Pavilion Theatre, Rhyl, Denbighshire, Wales.
Also appearing in Belfast & 7th-11th November at Londonderry, Derry City in Ireland performing the theatrics at The Millennium Forum in Newmarket Street.
2015: Ruth played the Fairy Godmother in the pantomime 'Cinderella' at the Palace Theatre at Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, England.
Ruth Madoc a great lover of theatre & musicals performed in over 30 shows around the world including Phantom of the Opera. Also playing Dick Whittington in theatre at Edinburgh City, Scotland.
2018: Starring alongside fellow performers including Coleen Nolan, Victoria Derbyshire & Michelle Heaton, to raise awareness about breast cancer, Ruth overcame her fears to reveal her breasts to a live audience in the ladies' version of The Real Full Monty.
The ladies performed a dance to The Greatest Showman's "This Is Me!".
She has also starred in TV programmes such as BBC's Doctors & hit show Benidorm playing Rhiannon, also on stage with Calendar Girls (the play and the musical).
Plus recent acclaim in short films Skinny Fat and Cardiff starring with writer/director Matthew David who also plays the main role.
December 2022: Ruth had to cancel her performance in this years Christmas pantomime Aladdin at the Princess Theatre, Torquay, Devon, South West England alongside Ricky Norwood (Fatboy in soap Eastenders), due to her injuries following a fall earlier this week.
Ruth was also looking forward to a future role next year in 2023 on The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel alongside Belinda Lang & Paul Nicholas on a UK theatre tour.
~
TRIBUTES PAID in respect:-
Of Ruth's many friends tributes, the love of a legend shines through just how well loved & inspirational she was to all:-
Actor and writer Sir Tony Robinson, infamous Blackadder actor Baldrick & presenter of archaeological series Time Team:
"So sad to hear my lovely friend Ruth Madoc has passed.
She was not only funny and highly intelligent, she was smart, kindly, a loyal trade unionist, and wore her heart on the left. She'll be much missed."
*
Matt Lucas and David Walliams
"We are both shocked and saddened to hear about the passing of Ruth Madoc.
We grew up watching her iconic and genius performance as Gladys Pugh in 'Hi-De-Hi' and were thrilled when she agreed to come on board 'Little Britain' as Daffyd's mum.
She was brilliant in the show and an absolute delight to work with.
We send our love and condolences to her family x David and Matt."
*
Les Dennis, comedian & former Family Fortunes presenter:
"So very sad to hear that lovely Ruth Madoc has passed away.
She was such a talented and lovely woman."
*
Actor Joe McGann paid tribute:
"Such sad news about the amazing Ruth Madoc.
I was lucky enough to work with her more than once and I loved the bright, skilful, funny, fearless, kind, and inspiring ball of light that she always was."
*
Screenwriter Russell T Davies:-
"She starred as Myrtle in a series I wrote called Mine All Mine, and she was an absolute delight."
Describing Ruth as "funny, kind, salty, shrewd and beautifully uncynical"
*
Comedian Paul Chuckle:
"Just heard the very sad news RIP to the lovely Ruth Madoc.
I've worked with her several times, including an episode of BBC1's Doctors … she will be greatly missed."
*
Jon Petrie, BBC director of comedy:
"We are saddened to hear the news about Ruth Madoc.
She was a true star of stage and screen and her comedy performances were adored by the nation."
*
Phil Belfield of talent agency Belfield & Ward Ltd:
"A real legend of the British entertainment scene, she was one of a kind and a unique talent loved by many. She is gone far too soon. Our hearts are broken!"
*
Gyles Brandreth, former MP, now Broadcaster, writer & reporter on BBC's The One Show:
"This is such sad news. Ruth was a very lovely person." He remembered her for being a 'wonderfully gifted actress.'
"I was lucky enough to get to know her through my best friend from school, Simon Cadell, In Hi-De-Hi they were irresistible.
RIP Ruth Madoc & thanks for the memories. Goodbye campers!"
~
2019: Ruth fell & broke her hip while rehearsing for her role in Calendar Girls, but confounded doctors with her speedy recovery.
Friday, 9th December 2022: Ruth was rushed to hospital after an accident earlier this week.
This afternoon in hospital following surgery after the fall, Ruth Madoc fell asleep.
Torquay, England.
*
Funeral on Monday, 16th January 2023.
The service was at St David's church in Neath at 12:00pm (noon) where hundreds of mourners paid their last respects.
In a message to the late actress, Su Pollard said: "Ruth darling, we're outside the church and I'm thinking of you and sending lots of love like we all are".
Su added: "I hope she'll be remembered as somebody that was a positive influence, someone that enjoyed herself, she made a difference you know, because she was very clever."
It was followed by interment at Glynneath Cemetery at 1.30p.m.
Donations, if desired, to Sight Life Wales for whom Ruth was Patron.
~~~~~~~~~~~
Ho-de-Ho! to our beloved Ruth Madoc, our National Treasure.
[Bio by: Linda McKinney]
Age: 79years old.
Daughter of George L & Iris Mary (Williams) Baker. [both born in Wales.]
Both parents occupations were in medicine. George worked as an administrator for 3 Norfolk hospitals, while Iris worked as a nursing matron in the same area.
1939 George & Iris were married at Swansea, Glamorganshire, Wales.
Ruth's parents were constantly travelling around England due to George's job. After WW2, Britain was left with a housing & health crisis. He was heavily involved in the progression of the new NHS 'welfare state offering free healthcare', which was established on the 5th July 1948, in England.
Ruth was therefore brought up in Llansamlet, a coalmining village near Swansea, Southwest Wales by her Welsh grandmother Etta (Henrietta) Evans and her English grandfather John Williams until she was 15years old.
She was also grand-daughter of Walter & Margaret Baker.
Ruth was assistant stage manager at Nottingham Playhouse for a short time before her training commenced at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), London, England, UK.
This is where Ruth progressed in imitating other character voices.
c1961 - 1981 Married: Philip Madoc (actor).
1982 Married: John Jackson.
Ruth has 2 children.
2006 Ruth awarded an honorary degree by Swansea University.
(A fellow of the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama).
Ruth & her husband John lived in 'the mountains, in Glynneath, South Wales (Glamorgan) & always considers herself as Welsh.
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Hello campers.., Hi-de-Hi!"
A Welsh Icon & British National Treasure!
A British actress and singer Ruth Madoc's career covered an array of roles in theatre and musicals as well as releasing songs like Look Into Your Heart, Tevye's Dream & Happy Talk.
[Ruth didn't actually speak with a strong Welsh accent, even though many of her characters portrayed her with it.]
As an actress & singer, for about 3 years she worked on The Black and White Minstrel Show & a summer season in 'Fol-de-Rols', another music hall company.
1968: 'She made her musical acting debut in 1968 playing 'Maria' in Scarborough Summer Theatre's production of West Side Story at the Open Air theatre, followed later that year by her first West End role, taking over as Aldonza in the original London production of Man of La Mancha (Piccadilly theatre).'
(Suggested by: 'Scarborough Summer Theatre' - Dec 2022).
After her break-out role in 1971 playing Fruma Sarah in the film version of the musical Fiddler On The Roof, her career spanned to performances including Under Milk Wood in 1972 playing Mrs Dai Bread Two with Richard Burton; Poems and Pints on BBC Wales & Gypsy playing Mama Rose.
1970's: On the "Cadbury's Smash potato's" tv commercial 'For Mash - get Smash!' she was one of the 'alien' voices for the advert.
1973-1976: Ruth played the Schoolteacher character Betty & wife of detective sergeant 'Smithy' Smith (Ewan Hooper) in all three series of the Midlands police drama Hunter's Walk.
1.1.1980: Ruth was best known and so loved for her iconic performance on BBC1's family comedy
Hi-de-Hi. 9series/60 episodes were filmed until the final on 30.1.1988.
The programme was based on a job experience by one of it's writers Jimmy Perry.
After he was demobilised from the Army Jimmy became a Redcoat at Butlins in Filey, North Yorkshire, England and Pwllheli, Wales during the holiday season.
Described as "Fun and frolics at a branch of Maplin's Holiday Camp where the guests are the last thing on the mind of the staff."
Ruth received a BAFTA TV award nomination for Best Light Entertainment Performance.
She shined on our screens as 'Chief Yellowcoat/Sports Organiser/Radio Maplin Announcer' Gladys Pugh at 1959/60's Maplin's Holiday Camp at Crimpton-on-Sea, England, 1 of 6 sites owned by boss Joe Maplin.
She performed with fellow actors including Paul Shane as Ted Bovis, Camp Host & his sidekick & 'chalet sharer' Spike Dixon the site comic played by Jeffrey Holland; lovely Su Pollard as Peggy Ollerenshaw the Chalet-Maid dreaming of becoming a 'Yellowcoat'; Simon Cadell as Archaeology Professor Jeffrey Fairbrother, Entertainments Manager & the object of Gladys Pugh's unreciprocated passionate affections & upon his departure Glady's attentions turned to reckless Squadron Leader Clive Dempster; Leslie Dwyer as William Partridge the Children's Entertainer who didn't like children, etc, etc., all who may have started as colleagues but with Ruth's infectious fun & loving character soon became her many on/off screen friends for many years.
The only thing the hilarious Glady's loved more than 'Jeffrey or Clive' was the camp Tannoy 'Radio Maplin' system where she would address the holiday 'campers' with the days itinerary. At the start & end of her announcements she would hit 3 notes on her mini xylophone., followed by "Hello campers., Hi-de-Hi!" In between chimes, Gladys would announce the days itinerary including the "Knobbly knees contest" a regular & popular event at the camp.
Hi-de-Hi! was one of Britain's most popular catchphrases.
1984: Ruth surprised by the legendary Eamonn Andrews appeared on This Is Your Life & being presented at the end of the show with the famous 'big red book' & "Ruth Madoc, This Is Your Life!"
c2004: Ruth starred as mother of the Welsh character Daffyd Thomas played by Matt Lucas in Little Britain.
2008: Starred in the show Annie as the bad-tempered orphanage manager, Miss Hannigan.
Also played the Bad Fairy in the pantomime 'Sleeping Beauty at the Pavilion Theatre, Rhyl, Denbighshire, Wales.
Also appearing in Belfast & 7th-11th November at Londonderry, Derry City in Ireland performing the theatrics at The Millennium Forum in Newmarket Street.
2015: Ruth played the Fairy Godmother in the pantomime 'Cinderella' at the Palace Theatre at Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, England.
Ruth Madoc a great lover of theatre & musicals performed in over 30 shows around the world including Phantom of the Opera. Also playing Dick Whittington in theatre at Edinburgh City, Scotland.
2018: Starring alongside fellow performers including Coleen Nolan, Victoria Derbyshire & Michelle Heaton, to raise awareness about breast cancer, Ruth overcame her fears to reveal her breasts to a live audience in the ladies' version of The Real Full Monty.
The ladies performed a dance to The Greatest Showman's "This Is Me!".
She has also starred in TV programmes such as BBC's Doctors & hit show Benidorm playing Rhiannon, also on stage with Calendar Girls (the play and the musical).
Plus recent acclaim in short films Skinny Fat and Cardiff starring with writer/director Matthew David who also plays the main role.
December 2022: Ruth had to cancel her performance in this years Christmas pantomime Aladdin at the Princess Theatre, Torquay, Devon, South West England alongside Ricky Norwood (Fatboy in soap Eastenders), due to her injuries following a fall earlier this week.
Ruth was also looking forward to a future role next year in 2023 on The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel alongside Belinda Lang & Paul Nicholas on a UK theatre tour.
~
TRIBUTES PAID in respect:-
Of Ruth's many friends tributes, the love of a legend shines through just how well loved & inspirational she was to all:-
Actor and writer Sir Tony Robinson, infamous Blackadder actor Baldrick & presenter of archaeological series Time Team:
"So sad to hear my lovely friend Ruth Madoc has passed.
She was not only funny and highly intelligent, she was smart, kindly, a loyal trade unionist, and wore her heart on the left. She'll be much missed."
*
Matt Lucas and David Walliams
"We are both shocked and saddened to hear about the passing of Ruth Madoc.
We grew up watching her iconic and genius performance as Gladys Pugh in 'Hi-De-Hi' and were thrilled when she agreed to come on board 'Little Britain' as Daffyd's mum.
She was brilliant in the show and an absolute delight to work with.
We send our love and condolences to her family x David and Matt."
*
Les Dennis, comedian & former Family Fortunes presenter:
"So very sad to hear that lovely Ruth Madoc has passed away.
She was such a talented and lovely woman."
*
Actor Joe McGann paid tribute:
"Such sad news about the amazing Ruth Madoc.
I was lucky enough to work with her more than once and I loved the bright, skilful, funny, fearless, kind, and inspiring ball of light that she always was."
*
Screenwriter Russell T Davies:-
"She starred as Myrtle in a series I wrote called Mine All Mine, and she was an absolute delight."
Describing Ruth as "funny, kind, salty, shrewd and beautifully uncynical"
*
Comedian Paul Chuckle:
"Just heard the very sad news RIP to the lovely Ruth Madoc.
I've worked with her several times, including an episode of BBC1's Doctors … she will be greatly missed."
*
Jon Petrie, BBC director of comedy:
"We are saddened to hear the news about Ruth Madoc.
She was a true star of stage and screen and her comedy performances were adored by the nation."
*
Phil Belfield of talent agency Belfield & Ward Ltd:
"A real legend of the British entertainment scene, she was one of a kind and a unique talent loved by many. She is gone far too soon. Our hearts are broken!"
*
Gyles Brandreth, former MP, now Broadcaster, writer & reporter on BBC's The One Show:
"This is such sad news. Ruth was a very lovely person." He remembered her for being a 'wonderfully gifted actress.'
"I was lucky enough to get to know her through my best friend from school, Simon Cadell, In Hi-De-Hi they were irresistible.
RIP Ruth Madoc & thanks for the memories. Goodbye campers!"
~
2019: Ruth fell & broke her hip while rehearsing for her role in Calendar Girls, but confounded doctors with her speedy recovery.
Friday, 9th December 2022: Ruth was rushed to hospital after an accident earlier this week.
This afternoon in hospital following surgery after the fall, Ruth Madoc fell asleep.
Torquay, England.
*
Funeral on Monday, 16th January 2023.
The service was at St David's church in Neath at 12:00pm (noon) where hundreds of mourners paid their last respects.
In a message to the late actress, Su Pollard said: "Ruth darling, we're outside the church and I'm thinking of you and sending lots of love like we all are".
Su added: "I hope she'll be remembered as somebody that was a positive influence, someone that enjoyed herself, she made a difference you know, because she was very clever."
It was followed by interment at Glynneath Cemetery at 1.30p.m.
Donations, if desired, to Sight Life Wales for whom Ruth was Patron.
~~~~~~~~~~~
Ho-de-Ho! to our beloved Ruth Madoc, our National Treasure.
[Bio by: Linda McKinney]
Daughter of George L & Iris Mary (Williams) Baker. [both born in Wales.]
Both parents occupations were in medicine. George worked as an administrator for 3 Norfolk hospitals, while Iris worked as a nursing matron in the same area.
1939 George & Iris were married at Swansea, Glamorganshire, Wales.
Ruth's parents were constantly travelling around England due to George's job. After WW2, Britain was left with a housing & health crisis. He was heavily involved in the progression of the new NHS 'welfare state offering free healthcare', which was established on the 5th July 1948, in England.
Ruth was therefore brought up in Llansamlet, a coalmining village near Swansea, Southwest Wales by her Welsh grandmother Etta (Henrietta) Evans and her English grandfather John Williams until she was 15years old.
She was also grand-daughter of Walter & Margaret Baker.
Ruth was assistant stage manager at Nottingham Playhouse for a short time before her training commenced at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), London, England, UK.
This is where Ruth progressed in imitating other character voices.
c1961 - 1981 Married: Philip Madoc (actor).
1982 Married: John Jackson.
Ruth has 2 children.
2006 Ruth awarded an honorary degree by Swansea University.
(A fellow of the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama).
Ruth & her husband John lived in 'the mountains, in Glynneath, South Wales (Glamorgan) & always considers herself as Welsh.
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"Hello campers.., Hi-de-Hi!"
A Welsh Icon & British National Treasure!
A British actress and singer Ruth Madoc's career covered an array of roles in theatre and musicals as well as releasing songs like Look Into Your Heart, Tevye's Dream & Happy Talk.
[Ruth didn't actually speak with a strong Welsh accent, even though many of her characters portrayed her with it.]
As an actress & singer, for about 3 years she worked on The Black and White Minstrel Show & a summer season in 'Fol-de-Rols', another music hall company.
1968: 'She made her musical acting debut in 1968 playing 'Maria' in Scarborough Summer Theatre's production of West Side Story at the Open Air theatre, followed later that year by her first West End role, taking over as Aldonza in the original London production of Man of La Mancha (Piccadilly theatre).'
(Suggested by: 'Scarborough Summer Theatre' - Dec 2022).
After her break-out role in 1971 playing Fruma Sarah in the film version of the musical Fiddler On The Roof, her career spanned to performances including Under Milk Wood in 1972 playing Mrs Dai Bread Two with Richard Burton; Poems and Pints on BBC Wales & Gypsy playing Mama Rose.
1970's: On the "Cadbury's Smash potato's" tv commercial 'For Mash - get Smash!' she was one of the 'alien' voices for the advert.
1973-1976: Ruth played the Schoolteacher character Betty & wife of detective sergeant 'Smithy' Smith (Ewan Hooper) in all three series of the Midlands police drama Hunter's Walk.
1.1.1980: Ruth was best known and so loved for her iconic performance on BBC1's family comedy
Hi-de-Hi. 9series/60 episodes were filmed until the final on 30.1.1988.
The programme was based on a job experience by one of it's writers Jimmy Perry.
After he was demobilised from the Army Jimmy became a Redcoat at Butlins in Filey, North Yorkshire, England and Pwllheli, Wales during the holiday season.
Described as "Fun and frolics at a branch of Maplin's Holiday Camp where the guests are the last thing on the mind of the staff."
Ruth received a BAFTA TV award nomination for Best Light Entertainment Performance.
She shined on our screens as 'Chief Yellowcoat/Sports Organiser/Radio Maplin Announcer' Gladys Pugh at 1959/60's Maplin's Holiday Camp at Crimpton-on-Sea, England, 1 of 6 sites owned by boss Joe Maplin.
She performed with fellow actors including Paul Shane as Ted Bovis, Camp Host & his sidekick & 'chalet sharer' Spike Dixon the site comic played by Jeffrey Holland; lovely Su Pollard as Peggy Ollerenshaw the Chalet-Maid dreaming of becoming a 'Yellowcoat'; Simon Cadell as Archaeology Professor Jeffrey Fairbrother, Entertainments Manager & the object of Gladys Pugh's unreciprocated passionate affections & upon his departure Glady's attentions turned to reckless Squadron Leader Clive Dempster; Leslie Dwyer as William Partridge the Children's Entertainer who didn't like children, etc, etc., all who may have started as colleagues but with Ruth's infectious fun & loving character soon became her many on/off screen friends for many years.
The only thing the hilarious Glady's loved more than 'Jeffrey or Clive' was the camp Tannoy 'Radio Maplin' system where she would address the holiday 'campers' with the days itinerary. At the start & end of her announcements she would hit 3 notes on her mini xylophone., followed by "Hello campers., Hi-de-Hi!" In between chimes, Gladys would announce the days itinerary including the "Knobbly knees contest" a regular & popular event at the camp.
Hi-de-Hi! was one of Britain's most popular catchphrases.
1984: Ruth surprised by the legendary Eamonn Andrews appeared on This Is Your Life & being presented at the end of the show with the famous 'big red book' & "Ruth Madoc, This Is Your Life!"
c2004: Ruth starred as mother of the Welsh character Daffyd Thomas played by Matt Lucas in Little Britain.
2008: Starred in the show Annie as the bad-tempered orphanage manager, Miss Hannigan.
Also played the Bad Fairy in the pantomime 'Sleeping Beauty at the Pavilion Theatre, Rhyl, Denbighshire, Wales.
Also appearing in Belfast & 7th-11th November at Londonderry, Derry City in Ireland performing the theatrics at The Millennium Forum in Newmarket Street.
2015: Ruth played the Fairy Godmother in the pantomime 'Cinderella' at the Palace Theatre at Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, England.
Ruth Madoc a great lover of theatre & musicals performed in over 30 shows around the world including Phantom of the Opera. Also playing Dick Whittington in theatre at Edinburgh City, Scotland.
2018: Starring alongside fellow performers including Coleen Nolan, Victoria Derbyshire & Michelle Heaton, to raise awareness about breast cancer, Ruth overcame her fears to reveal her breasts to a live audience in the ladies' version of The Real Full Monty.
The ladies performed a dance to The Greatest Showman's "This Is Me!".
She has also starred in TV programmes such as BBC's Doctors & hit show Benidorm playing Rhiannon, also on stage with Calendar Girls (the play and the musical).
Plus recent acclaim in short films Skinny Fat and Cardiff starring with writer/director Matthew David who also plays the main role.
December 2022: Ruth had to cancel her performance in this years Christmas pantomime Aladdin at the Princess Theatre, Torquay, Devon, South West England alongside Ricky Norwood (Fatboy in soap Eastenders), due to her injuries following a fall earlier this week.
Ruth was also looking forward to a future role next year in 2023 on The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel alongside Belinda Lang & Paul Nicholas on a UK theatre tour.
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TRIBUTES PAID in respect:-
Of Ruth's many friends tributes, the love of a legend shines through just how well loved & inspirational she was to all:-
Actor and writer Sir Tony Robinson, infamous Blackadder actor Baldrick & presenter of archaeological series Time Team:
"So sad to hear my lovely friend Ruth Madoc has passed.
She was not only funny and highly intelligent, she was smart, kindly, a loyal trade unionist, and wore her heart on the left. She'll be much missed."
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Matt Lucas and David Walliams
"We are both shocked and saddened to hear about the passing of Ruth Madoc.
We grew up watching her iconic and genius performance as Gladys Pugh in 'Hi-De-Hi' and were thrilled when she agreed to come on board 'Little Britain' as Daffyd's mum.
She was brilliant in the show and an absolute delight to work with.
We send our love and condolences to her family x David and Matt."
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Les Dennis, comedian & former Family Fortunes presenter:
"So very sad to hear that lovely Ruth Madoc has passed away.
She was such a talented and lovely woman."
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Actor Joe McGann paid tribute:
"Such sad news about the amazing Ruth Madoc.
I was lucky enough to work with her more than once and I loved the bright, skilful, funny, fearless, kind, and inspiring ball of light that she always was."
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Screenwriter Russell T Davies:-
"She starred as Myrtle in a series I wrote called Mine All Mine, and she was an absolute delight."
Describing Ruth as "funny, kind, salty, shrewd and beautifully uncynical"
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Comedian Paul Chuckle:
"Just heard the very sad news RIP to the lovely Ruth Madoc.
I've worked with her several times, including an episode of BBC1's Doctors … she will be greatly missed."
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Jon Petrie, BBC director of comedy:
"We are saddened to hear the news about Ruth Madoc.
She was a true star of stage and screen and her comedy performances were adored by the nation."
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Phil Belfield of talent agency Belfield & Ward Ltd:
"A real legend of the British entertainment scene, she was one of a kind and a unique talent loved by many. She is gone far too soon. Our hearts are broken!"
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Gyles Brandreth, former MP, now Broadcaster, writer & reporter on BBC's The One Show:
"This is such sad news. Ruth was a very lovely person." He remembered her for being a 'wonderfully gifted actress.'
"I was lucky enough to get to know her through my best friend from school, Simon Cadell, In Hi-De-Hi they were irresistible.
RIP Ruth Madoc & thanks for the memories. Goodbye campers!"
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2019: Ruth fell & broke her hip while rehearsing for her role in Calendar Girls, but confounded doctors with her speedy recovery.
Friday, 9th December 2022: Ruth was rushed to hospital after an accident earlier this week.
This afternoon in hospital following surgery after the fall, Ruth Madoc fell asleep.
Torquay, England.
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Funeral on Monday, 16th January 2023.
The service was at St David's church in Neath at 12:00pm (noon) where hundreds of mourners paid their last respects.
In a message to the late actress, Su Pollard said: "Ruth darling, we're outside the church and I'm thinking of you and sending lots of love like we all are".
Su added: "I hope she'll be remembered as somebody that was a positive influence, someone that enjoyed herself, she made a difference you know, because she was very clever."
It was followed by interment at Glynneath Cemetery at 1.30p.m.
Donations, if desired, to Sight Life Wales for whom Ruth was Patron.
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Ho-de-Ho! to our beloved Ruth Madoc, our National Treasure.
[Bio by: Linda McKinney]
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