Celia Imrie Biography

Born in Guildford, Surrey, England, on July 15, 1952, Celia Imrie is one of Britain’s most versatile and accomplished actresses. Known for her effortless blend of sharp wit and emotional depth, she has had an illustrious career spanning film, television, and stage.

Celia trained at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama before beginning her acting career in the 1970s. She first gained recognition through her collaborations with comedian Victoria Wood, appearing in beloved British comedies such as Victoria Wood: As Seen on TV and Dinnerladies. These roles showcased her impeccable comedic timing and helped cement her as a household name in the U.K.

On the big screen, Celia is well known for her roles in Calendar Girls (2003), Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001) and its sequels, and Nanny McPhee (2005). She also starred in the ensemble cast of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011) and its sequel, both international hits. Her other film credits include Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again (2018), Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie (2016), and Star Wars: The Phantom Menace (1999), where she played fighter pilot Bravo 5.

In addition to her film work, Celia has had a strong presence on television, appearing in acclaimed series such as Kingdom, Doctor Who, and The Darling Buds of May. She has also performed extensively on stage, earning accolades for her work with the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Theatre.

Beyond acting, Celia is an accomplished author, having written several novels, including Not Quite Nice (2015) and its follow-ups. Her charm, versatility, and dedication to her craft have made her one of the most beloved actresses in Britain and beyond. Celia appeared as Mimi in Love Sarah (2020), portraying a grieving mother who helps launch her late daughter’s bakery venture in Notting Hill.

More recently, Celia voiced Mother June in the animated Mummies (2023), appeared as Gina Valentine in the romantic drama Love Again (2023), and played Imelda in the comedy-drama Good Grief (2023). In 2025, Celia appeared as Joyce Meadowcroft in The Thursday Murder Club, Netflix’s adaptation of Richard Osman's bestselling novel. She joined the cast alongside Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, and Ben Kingsley.

She reprised her role as Una in the upcoming Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy (2025), continuing her long running connection to the franchise.

Filmography:

Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy (2025)
The Thursday Murder Club (2025)
Mummies (2023)
Good Grief (2023)
Love Again (2023)
The Diplomat (2023)
And Mrs (2022)
Our House (2022)
Better Things (2022)
A Taste of Hunger (2021)
Love Sarah (2020)
Agatha Raisin (2020)
Dad's Army: The Lost Episodes (2020)
Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again (2018)
Patrick (2018)
Mary Poppins Returns (2018)
Ordeal by Innocence (2018)
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society (2018)
Finding Your Feet (2017)
Bridget Jones's Baby (2016)
Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie (2016)
Love & Friendship (2016)
The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2015)
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011)
Nanny McPhee and the Big Bang (2010)
Nanny McPhee (2005)
Calendar Girls (2003)
Bridget Jones's Diary (2001)
The Borrowers (1993)
The Riff Raff Element (1993)
House of Cards (1990)
Highlander (1986)
The Ploughman’s Lunch (1983)
Love in a Cold Climate (1980)
The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (1978)
The Duchess of Malfi (1976)