Una Stubbs remains one of Britain’s most beloved actresses, known for her dazzling charm, versatility, and presence across stage, television, and film. For generations, she captivated audiences—whether dancing her way into early musical productions, playing the mischievous Aunt Sally in Worzel Gummidge, or becoming the refined yet witty Mrs. Hudson in Sherlock. Her career stretched across six decades, and she became a household name recognized for her warmth, talent, and ability to connect with viewers of all ages.
In this comprehensive article, we explore who Una Stubbs was, her early life, family, career highlights, films and TV shows, marriages, children, net worth, cause of death, and how she became the icon she is remembered as today. This article is ideal for anyone searching for terms such as “una stubbs age,” “una stubbs net worth,” “una stubbs relations,” “una stubbs father,” “una stubbs family,” “una stubbs young,” “una stubbs married to,” “una stubbs kids,” and more.
Who Is Una Stubbs?
Una Stubbs was an English actress, dancer, presenter, and artist who became one of the most recognizable faces on British television. Born on 1 May 1937 in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, she later rose to fame in multiple entertainment fields—initially as a dancer, then as an actress in films, comedies, children’s television, and later high-profile drama.
She is most internationally known for her role as Mrs. Hudson in the BBC series Sherlock (2010–2017). However, her career was much larger than one role—she had become a familiar face in British entertainment since the early 1960s.
With her warm personality and expressive acting style, Una Stubbs became a figure audiences grew up with, making her contributions timeless.
Una Stubbs Age
Una Stubbs was born on May 1, 1937, and she passed away on August 12, 2021, making her 84 years old at the time of her death. Her long and active career spanned over 65 years, marking her as one of the most enduring performers of her generation.
Una Stubbs Young: Her Early Years and Rise in Entertainment
Una’s talent shone early in life. As a young girl, she had a strong inclination toward the performing arts. Her mother enrolled her in a dance school—La Roche Dance School in Slough—where she trained in ballet and performance techniques.
As a young performer, she was energetic, graceful, and naturally expressive.
Her early breakthrough came not in acting, but as a teenage dancer:
- At age 16, she performed in the Folies Bergère–style revue Pardon My French.
- She later danced in shows at the London Palladium, one of the top stages in the country.
- Her talents also led to work as a model, including becoming one of the famous “Dancing Girls” in popular advertising campaigns of the period.
Her early exposure to performing paved the way for an acting career that would soon define her life.
Una Stubbs Family Background
Understanding Una Stubbs requires understanding her family background, which played a central role in shaping her as an artist and individual.
Una Stubbs Father and Mother
- Father: Clarence Reginald Stubbs – a factory worker who supported his daughter’s artistic ambitions.
- Mother: Angela Rawlinson Stubbs – a devoted mother who encouraged Una to pursue dancing and acting.
Brothers and Sisters
Una was the middle child among three siblings:
- Older Sister: Claire
- Younger Brother: Paul
She often spoke fondly of her childhood and maintained strong bonds with her siblings throughout her life.
A Notable Ancestor
Una Stubbs had an impressive lineage — her great-grandfather was Ebenezer Howard, the founder of the “Garden City” movement and one of the most important urban planners in British history. This connection ties her family to major social and urban development initiatives.
Una Stubbs Career: Movies, TV Shows & Theatre Work
Una Stubbs had one of the most diverse and long-lasting careers in British entertainment. Her work spanned everything from 1960s musicals to major BBC dramas.
Film Career
1. Summer Holiday (1963)
One of her earliest major film roles, starring alongside Cliff Richard. This musical film elevated her public recognition and helped transition her from dancer to actress.
2. Wonderful Life (1964)
Another film with Cliff Richard, further establishing her film presence.
While her later career focused more on television and theatre, these films remain iconic pieces of British pop culture.
Television Career: Una Stubbs TV Shows
Una’s presence on British television is legendary. Below are some of her most notable TV roles:
1. Till Death Us Do Part (1965–1975)
One of her breakthrough TV roles, playing Rita Rawlins, the daughter in the Garnett family. This sitcom was a British cultural staple.
2. Worzel Gummidge (1979–1981)
Perhaps one of her most beloved roles, she played Aunt Sally, the mischievous, doll-like figure in this classic children’s series. It introduced her to an entirely new generation of young viewers.
3. In Sickness and in Health (1985–1992)
A sequel to Till Death Us Do Part, where she reprised her role.
4. Sherlock (2010–2017)
Her role as Mrs. Hudson, Sherlock Holmes’ landlady, brought her global recognition. Her chemistry with Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman made her character unforgettable.
5. The Big Painting Challenge (2015)
She co-presented this BBC show, showcasing her passion for the visual arts.
Additional Appearances
She also appeared in:
- The Worst Witch
- EastEnders
- Heartbeat
- Fawlty Towers
- Various theatre productions, including West End roles and classical plays.
Her versatile acting made her suitable for comedy, drama, fantasy, and modern television alike.
Una Stubbs Husband: Who Was She Married To?
Una Stubbs married twice.
First Marriage: Peter Gilmore (1958–1969)
Peter Gilmore was a well-known actor famous for The Onedin Line.
The couple adopted a son together before eventually divorcing.
Second Marriage: Nicky Henson (1969–1975)
Nicky Henson was also a popular actor. Despite divorcing in 1975, they were known to remain friends.
Una Stubbs Kids
Una had three sons:
- Jason Gilmore – Adopted with her first husband.
- Christian Henson – Composer known for film and TV scores.
- Joe Henson – Also a composer and part of the London-based musical group The Flight.
Her sons often described her as supportive, warm, and deeply loving.
Una Stubbs Relations (Overall)
When people search for “Una Stubbs relations,” they usually want a full list of family connections. Here is a breakdown:
- Parents: Clarence & Angela Stubbs
- Siblings: Claire (sister), Paul (brother)
- Children: Jason, Christian, Joe
- Husbands: Peter Gilmore, Nicky Henson
- Notable Ancestor: Ebenezer Howard (great-grandfather)
Her family had strong ties to acting, music, and urban history, making her background uniquely rich.
Una Stubbs Net Worth
There is no verified public information about Una Stubbs’ exact net worth.
However, based on her decades-long career in British entertainment—spanning TV, films, theatre, and presenting—it is safe to assume she had earned a comfortable living.
Most unofficial estimates suggest a modest but respectable net worth, common for actors of her generation. However, without concrete documentation, any specific number would be speculative.
What is clear is that Una Stubbs valued art, creativity, and personal fulfillment more than wealth, and she lived a meaningful, respected life within the arts community.
Una Stubbs’ Cause of Death
Una Stubbs passed away on August 12, 2021, after dealing with several months of ill health.
She died peacefully at home in Edinburgh, surrounded by her family.
The exact medical cause of death was not disclosed publicly, which is consistent with many public figures who prefer privacy regarding health matters.
Her passing was widely covered by British media, and tributes poured in from co-stars, actors, fans, and directors who admired her professionalism and kindness.
Una Stubbs Legacy
Una Stubbs left behind a legacy of joy, talent, and multi-generational impact. Few actresses manage to charm audiences across six decades, but Una did just that — transforming from a young dancer into a TV icon.
Her roles were diverse, filled with emotion, humor, intelligence, and charm.
From Worzel Gummidge to Sherlock, she became part of British entertainment history. Her work touched the hearts of children, adults, and critics alike.
Beyond acting, she was also admired for her painting, kindness, and positivity.
Her legacy continues through her children, her many roles, and the millions of viewers who grew up watching her.
At infory, we celebrate such timeless artists whose work continues to inspire.