Born on February 20, 1946, in Ramsgate, Kent, she is a celebrated English actress known for her versatile roles on stage and screen. She gained widespread recognition with her performance in "Secrets & Lies" (1996), earning an Academy Award nomination. Her career spans theater, television, and film, with notable appearances in "Little Voice" and the TV series "Vera." Renowned for her ability to portray complex characters, she continues to be a prominent figure in British entertainment.