Joan Bogle Hickson, a renowned English actress, was born on August 5, 1906, in Kingsthorpe, Northampton, to Edith Mary (née Bogle) and Alfred Harold Hickson, a shoe manufacturer. She was a daughter of a family that valued education, and Hickson's early life was marked by her boarding at Oldfield School in Swanage, Dorset.
Her passion for acting led her to train at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, where she honed her skills and prepared for a successful career on stage and screen. Hickson made her stage debut in 1927, and throughout the United Kingdom, she worked tirelessly, achieving significant success playing comedic, often eccentric characters in London's West End.
One of her most notable roles was that of the cockney maid Ida in the original production of See How They Run, which premiered at the Q Theatre in 1944 and then transferred to the Comedy Theatre in January 1945. This performance showcased her versatility and range as an actress, and it was a testament to her ability to bring characters to life on stage.
Hickson's film career began in 1934, and she went on to appear in numerous supporting roles, including several Carry On films. In Carry On Nurse, she played the role of Sister, while in Carry On Constable, she portrayed Mrs. May. These roles further demonstrated her ability to adapt to different genres and characters, and they cemented her status as a talented and versatile actress.
In addition to her work in film and television, Hickson was also known for her iconic portrayal of Agatha Christie's Miss Marple in the television series of the same name. She brought the beloved character to life with her distinctive voice and mannerisms, and her performances were widely praised. Hickson's contribution to the world of entertainment was significant, and she left a lasting legacy that continues to be celebrated by audiences around the world.
