Imelda Staunton

Dame Imelda Mary Philomena Bernadette Staunton DBE (born 9 January 1956) is an English actress and singer. After training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, Staunton began her career in repertory theatre in 1976 and appeared in various theatre productions in the United Kingdom. Over her career, she has received several awards including a British Academy Film Award, and four Laurence Olivier Awards as well as nominations for an Academy Award, three British Academy Television Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, and three Emmy Awards. Known for her many roles on the West End stage, Staunton has received thirteen Laurence Olivier Award nominations. On film, Staunton took early roles in films such as Peter's Friends, Much Ado About Nothing, Sense and Sensibility, and Shakespeare in Love. She later gained a wider audience for her role as Dolores Umbridge in the Harry Potter films. On television, Staunton starred in the sitcoms Up the Garden Path and Is it Legal?. She has also appeared in dramas like Antonia and Jane, Citizen X, and The Crown. Staunton was born in Archway, London to Irish immigrants Bridie, a hairdresser, and Joseph Staunton, a labourer. She graduated from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) at age 18 and then spent six years in British repertory theatre before moving on.