The entertainment world mourns the loss of Prunella Scales, best known for her role as Sybil Fawlty in the iconic sitcom Fawlty Towers. The talented actress passed away peacefully at her home in London on October 27, 2025, at the age of 93, following a long battle with dementia. Her co-star and friend, John Cleese, praised her as “a really wonderful comic actress,” emphasizing that she was “absolutely perfect” in scene after scene.
As news of her death spread, numerous figures from the entertainment industry expressed their condolences. Broadcaster Gyles Brandreth shared a photograph of Scales with Queen Camilla, reflecting on her exceptional talent and the joy she brought to many. He wrote, “What a wonderful actress: what a funny, intelligent, interesting, gifted human being.”
Former Sky News presenter Kay Burley also paid tribute, stating, “Good night Prunella Scales. One of the finest comedic actresses of our time. Her sharp wit and impeccable delivery made Fawlty Towers unforgettable.”
The BBC Director of Comedy, Jon Petrie, released a statement expressing sorrow over her passing. “She was a national treasure whose brilliance as Sybil Fawlty lit up screens and still makes us laugh today,” he noted, extending heartfelt condolences to her family and friends.
Prunella Scales was diagnosed with vascular dementia in 2013, a condition that affects thinking and memory. Despite her health challenges, she maintained a presence in the public eye, notably appearing alongside her husband, Timothy West, in the Channel 4 series Great Canal Journeys. The couple, who married in 1963, showcased their adventures traveling across the UK and Europe until their departure from the show in 2019 due to Prunella’s declining health.
Timothy West, who passed away in November 2024 at the age of 90, had met Scales during the filming of the BBC television play She Died Young in 1961. The couple enjoyed a remarkable partnership that lasted over six decades.
Scales’ family announced her death the following day, with her sons, Samuel and Joseph, releasing a heartfelt statement. They shared that she had “died peacefully at home” and had watched Fawlty Towers just a day before her passing. The statement also highlighted her enduring love for family, noting that she is survived by her two sons, one stepdaughter, seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
In their statement, the family expressed gratitude to those who cared for Scales in her final days, ensuring she was comfortable and surrounded by love. As tributes continue to pour in, it is clear that Prunella Scales leaves behind a legacy of laughter and joy that will be cherished by many.
