Prunella Scales Death and Obituary – British actress Prunella Scales, one of the most beloved figures in British television and theatre, has passed away at the age of 93. The celebrated actress, best known for her unforgettable role as Sybil Fawlty in the classic BBC sitcom Fawlty Towers, died peacefully at her home in London on October 27, 2025, surrounded by family.
Her family confirmed that Scales had been living with vascular dementia since 2013, and her health had been declining in recent years. Despite her condition, Scales reportedly remained cheerful and engaged until the end. In a touching detail shared by her sons, Samuel and Joseph West, she had been watching Fawlty Towers the day before her death — a series that helped define her career and cement her as one of Britain’s most iconic comedic talents.
Born in 1932, Prunella Scales built a career spanning over seven decades, earning acclaim for her sharp wit, impeccable timing, and ability to bring warmth and humanity to every role she played. While Fawlty Towers made her a household name, her career extended far beyond the famed seaside hotel of Torquay. She performed in numerous stage productions, radio plays, and television dramas, often showcasing her versatility and dedication to her craft.
Scales was also admired for her long and loving marriage to fellow actor Timothy West, whom she wed in 1963. The couple were both fixtures of British stage and screen, working together on various projects over the years, including the popular documentary series Great Canal Journeys, where they explored Britain’s waterways. Their partnership, both professional and personal, was seen as one of the strongest in the entertainment industry. West passed away in November 2024, just eleven months before Scales’ death.
In her final years, Scales and her family were candid about her battle with dementia. Her openness helped raise awareness about the condition and inspired countless families facing similar challenges. Her son Samuel, also a respected actor and director, often spoke publicly about his mother’s courage and humor, saying she continued to find joy in familiar faces and moments of laughter even as her memory faded.
Tributes from across the entertainment world poured in following the news of her passing. Colleagues and fans alike remembered her as “a national treasure,” “a master of comedy,” and “a woman of extraordinary grace.” Many highlighted her groundbreaking work as Sybil Fawlty — the sharp-tongued, endlessly patient wife of John Cleese’s hapless hotelier — a role that remains one of the most celebrated performances in British sitcom history.
Prunella Scales is survived by her sons Samuel and Joseph West, her stepdaughter Juliet, seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Her warmth, humor, and enduring body of work will continue to inspire future generations of performers and audiences alike.