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‘Fawlty Towers’ Actress Dies at 89
May 6, 2026
Posted 1 hour ago by
A. Cook / Getty ImagesClaire Nielson, the actress best known for her memorable guest star role in Fawlty Towers, has died at 89. No cause of death has been released at this time. Nielson died on April 29 after a career that stretched from British comedy classics to the literary world. She famously appeared opposite John Cleese in the sitcom’s iconic “Waldorf Salad” episode, playing Mrs.
Hamilton alongside her on-screen American husband, portrayed by Bruce Boa. Nielson later revealed that her agent initially warned against taking the now-iconic role, fearing a comedy part could hurt her chances of landing more dramatic work. But the actress brushed off the concern, telling The Times: “I’d always preferred comedy, so I didn’t care.” Born in Glasgow, Nielson trained at the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama before appearing in shows including The Two Ronnies, The Dick Emery Show, and the 1971 film Kidnapped. Later in life, she stepped away from acting and co-authored the grandparenting guide Your First Grandchild with her husband of more than 30 years, Paul Greenwood, and her daughter Peggy from her first marriage to actor Dennis Vance.Read it at The Daily MailRead more at The Daily Beast.
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