Felicity Kendal discusses ‘all-consuming’ grief after partner’s death

3 Jun 2026 • 4:31 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Felicity Kendal discusses ‘all-consuming’ grief after partner’s death

  • Felicity Kendal has shared insights into her three-year grieving journey following the death of her partner, theatre director Michael Rudman, in April 2023.
  • The 79-year-old actress, known for The Good Life, focuses on positive memories and believes life is too precious to dwell on sadness.
  • Kendal described the initial year of grief as "all-consuming", leading her to feel "half of me" was missing before she established a new routine.
  • She emphasised the importance of a support network and the realisation that she now has "another chance at life" after her loss.
  • Kendal also expressed her aversion to the phrase "lost her husband", stating, "I haven’t lost Michael; he is dead," advocating for directness about death.

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