Barbara Leigh-Hunt, Star of ‘Frenzy’ and ‘Pride & Prejudice,’ Passes Away at 88

**Remembering Barbara Leigh-Hunt: A Luminary Departed**

The entertainment world mourns the loss of Barbara Leigh-Hunt, the distinguished British actress renowned for her remarkable contributions to both stage and screen. Confirmed by her family, her passing on September 16 at her home in Warwickshire, England, marks the end of an era for a talent that spanned nearly seventy years.

Leigh-Hunt is perhaps best remembered for her chilling role in Alfred Hitchcock’s classic thriller, “Frenzy” (1972), where she portrayed Brenda Blaney, the wife of protagonist Richard Blaney, played by Jon Finch. Her character’s traumatic fate – a violent assault and murder by a serial killer – stirred significant controversy upon the film’s release.

Yet Leigh-Hunt’s acting prowess wasn’t confined to cinematic endeavors. Fans may recognize her as the haughty Lady Catherine de Bourgh in the acclaimed 1995 BBC adaptation of “Pride and Prejudice,” featuring Colin Firth as Mr. Darcy. Her filmography also boasts notable works such as “Henry VIII and His Six Wives,” “Billy Elliot,” and “Vanity Fair.”

While her film credits are impressive, Leigh-Hunt’s roots lie in theater, where she made an indelible mark. As a versatile talent for the Royal Shakespeare Company, the National Theatre, and Broadway, she captivated audiences worldwide. Her tenure on stage earned her the prestigious Olivier Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1993, a testament to her exceptional skill.

Leigh-Hunt, who was 88, is survived by her legacy and the memories of all she touched. Her husband, Richard Pasco, passed away in 2014 at 88. Rest in peace, Barbara.