Born on August 15, 1912, in Cheshire, England, she was a distinguished British actress known for her versatile performances in both film and theater. She gained prominence with her role in "Pygmalion" (1938) and won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for "Separate Tables" (1958). Her career spanned over six decades, featuring notable films like "A Man for All Seasons" (1966). Celebrated for her commanding stage presence, she became a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1975. She passed away in 2003.