Miriam Margolyes, the much-loved actress, gave an emotional interview on Saturday’s BBC Breakfast, where she reflected on her health and her long career.
In a pre-recorded chat with presenter Charlie Stayt, the 84-year-old addressed recent speculation after announcing plans to move to Tuscany. Charlie noted that some fans worried it meant she was unwell. Miriam explained: “Two years ago, I had a TAVI operation. I was given a cow’s aortic valve. They offered me a pig’s, but I said, ‘No, I’m Jewish. I better have a cow just to keep it level.’”
She pushed back at claims that her life was in danger, adding: “They used that as if I was dying now. I’m no more dying than you are. Of course, we’re all dying eventually, but I hope it’s a long time away. I’m perfectly fine. I’ve got some ailments, a weak bladder because I never did pelvic floor exercises, but I am still a working actress and a successful writer.”
The actress then became visibly moved while recalling her late mother. She revealed: “My mother, whom I adored, used to sing musical songs with me. She played the piano and dreamed of being an actress. When she had a stroke, which came after I told her I was gay, it really crushed her. The only words she could manage were, ‘I can’t afford a carriage.’ Whenever I sing ‘Daisy, Daisy’ in my show, it makes me think of her.”
Her heartfelt story brought her close to tears, with Charlie gently remarking that many viewers would be reassured to hear her honesty.
Miriam is currently touring the UK and Ireland with her one-woman show Miriam Margolyes: From A to Z, which combines childhood memories, career anecdotes, and a single poignant song. Closing the interview, she reflected: “I’m aware of being old, though still spirited. Life’s a rollercoaster—thank God we’re still rolling.”
