Miriam Margolyes is a beloved and highly versatile British actress, voice artist, and author known for her distinctive voice, wit, and candid personality. Born on May 18, 1941, in Oxford, England, she has had a long and varied career across stage, screen, and radio.
She famously played Professor Pomona Sprout in the Harry Potter series. Her performance as Mrs. Mingott in The Age of Innocence (1993) earned her a BAFTA Award for Best Supporting Actress. She has appeared in numerous British shows, including Call the Midwife and Blackadder. Her documentaries, such as The Real Marigold Hotel and Miriam's Big Fat Adventure, showcase her wit and love for travel and exploration.
Margolyes is also a celebrated stage actress, with acclaimed performances in productions like The Vagina Monologues and her one-woman show Dickens’ Women. As a voice artist, she has contributed to animated classics like Mulan (1998), where she voiced The Matchmaker. She also narrated audiobooks, including works by Charles Dickens.
Miriam is known for her outspoken nature, humor, and activism. She is a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights (she came out as gay in the 1960s) and is a passionate supporter of environmental and social causes. Her autobiography, This Much Is True (2021), offers an unfiltered and entertaining glimpse into her life. Her charm and unfiltered interviews have made her a favorite on talk shows and in public appearances.