British actress Prunella Scales, renowned for her portrayal of Sybil Fawlty in the legendary BBC sitcom Fawlty Towers, has died at the age of 93. Her sons, Samuel and Joseph West, confirmed the news in a statement released on October 28, noting that she passed away peacefully at her London home on October 27. Scales had been living with dementia in recent years, which led to her retirement from acting after a career spanning nearly seven decades.
She was reportedly watching Fawlty Towers the day before her death, a fitting tribute to the role that defined her legacy in British television.
Prunella Scales, the acclaimed British actress, died peacefully at home in London on October 27, 2025, at the age of 93, following a long battle with dementia. Her death was confirmed by her sons in a statement to the press. Scales was best known for her role as Sybil Fawlty in the BBC sitcom Fawlty Towers, which aired in 1975 and 1979. She had retired from acting due to health concerns but remained a beloved figure in British entertainment.
Career Highlights and Personal Life
- Career span: Nearly 70 years
- Iconic role: Sybil Fawlty in Fawlty Towers
- Other credits: Hobson’s Choice (1954), Waltz of the Toreadors (1962), Howards End (1992), Johnny English (2003)
- Honors: Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE), 1992
- Personal life: Married to actor Timothy West for 61 years (d. 2024); survived by two sons, one stepdaughter, seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren
Scales also co-hosted Great Canal Journeys with West from 2014 to 2017, showcasing their shared love of travel and storytelling.
Quotes and Reactions
Her sons shared:
“She was watching Fawlty Towers the day before she died… Her last days were comfortable, contented and surrounded by love.”
John Cleese, her Fawlty Towers co-star, once said:
“The central purpose in having the character of Sybil in the show from the beginning was to give Basil someone to be frightened of.”
Fans and colleagues have paid tribute across social media, celebrating her wit, warmth, and unforgettable performances.
Cultural Legacy and Industry Influence
Scales’ portrayal of Sybil Fawlty helped cement Fawlty Towers as one of the most celebrated British sitcoms of all time. The British Film Institute ranked it No. 1 in 2000. Her comedic timing, commanding presence, and nuanced character work influenced generations of performers and writers.
Her legacy extends beyond television, with notable contributions to stage, film, and commercial work, including her memorable Tesco ads.
What’s Next: Memorials and Tributes
No public memorial has been announced yet, but tributes are expected across British media and entertainment institutions. BBC and Channel 4 are likely to air retrospectives and special programming in her honor.
Her family has expressed gratitude to those who cared for her in her final days and asked for privacy as they mourn.
