‘I shall miss her’: Michael Caine’s touching tribute to late co-star Glenda Jackson

In the wake of the tragic loss of Glenda Jackson, legendary actor Michael Caine has offered a heartfelt tribute, reflecting on her remarkable talent and contribution to the world of cinema.

Jackson peacefully passed away on Thursday, June 15 at her residence in Blackheath, London, after a “brief illness”, her agent revealed.

Just weeks prior to her passing, Jackson collaborated with Caine on what would become her final film.

Michael Caine & Glenda Jackson in 1975 and 2022. pic.twitter.com/D89YpC5kXA

— John Fugelsang (@JohnFugelsang) June 16, 2023

In his first public statement following the announcement of her passing, Caine said that he “shall miss” his former co-star, revealing that it “was a privilege” to work alongside her.

“Glenda was one of our greatest movie actresses. It was a privilege to work with her on The Great Escaper recently, our second film together,” Caine said.

“It was as wonderful an experience this time as it was 50 years ago. I shall miss her.”

Caine wasn’t the only one to pay tribute to Jackson with many taking to social media to honour her contributions to the world of arts and politics.

Vale Glenda Jackson
I consider myself so lucky to have lived in the “Glenda Jackson-ian Era” An absolute titan of the acting world, an inspiration and guiding light to so many of us. So brave and gifted in life as well as art. Her “Elizabeth R” emblazoned on my heart and psyche.… pic.twitter.com/AcJ9h8IQFH

— Magda Szubanski AO (@MagdaSzubanski) June 16, 2023

Glenda Jackson was so talented she got bored winning Oscars and became an MP to help the disadvantaged. Today, people try to become the biggest train wreck possible so they can get on TV and attract “followers.” RIP Glenda. It was a privilege to know you. pic.twitter.com/BJktfcxHyM

— Charlie Matthau (@CharlieMatthau) June 16, 2023

I was a big fan of Glenda Jackson, both as an actor and as a politician. She was an epic talent, a passionate advocate, and simply extraordinary.

You can hear a conversation we had a few years ago here about her incredible life and career. https://t.co/2NPvDYnrqy

— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) June 16, 2023

The peerless Glenda Jackson has died pic.twitter.com/t0vQu4XUzu

— Richard E. Grant (@RichardEGrant) June 15, 2023

Glenda Jackson CBE (1936 – 2023) R.I.P pic.twitter.com/mMzo3TPFVd

— ???????????? Classic British TV ???????????? (@Classicbritcom) June 15, 2023

Born on May 9, 1936, in Cheshire, England, she grew up in a working-class family. Jackson attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London, where she honed her acting skills.

In the early years of her career, Glenda Jackson primarily focused on stage performances. She gained recognition for her powerful and versatile acting abilities, and her talent led her to work with prestigious theatre companies like the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Jackson’s success in theatre eventually propelled her into the world of film. In the late 1960s and 1970s, she transitioned to the silver screen and quickly became a prominent figure in British cinema. Her breakthrough role came in the film Women in Love in 1969, directed by Ken Russell, for which she won an Academy Award for Best Actress. The film showcased her talent for portraying complex and intense characters.

Throughout her career, Glenda Jackson delivered captivating performances in a range of films, including Sunday Bloody Sunday, A Touch of Class, and Hedda. She became known for her strong-willed and independent portrayals of women, often challenging societal norms and conventions. Her compelling performances consistently garnered critical acclaim and earned her numerous accolades.

In addition to her success in the entertainment industry, Glenda Jackson embarked on a career in politics. In 1992, she was elected as the Member of Parliament (MP) for the Hampstead and Highgate constituency as a member of the Labour Party. She served as an MP for over 23 years, bringing her passion for social justice and equality into the political arena.

During her time as an MP, Jackson continued to pursue her acting career, balancing her political duties with occasional performances on stage and screen. However, in 2015, she announced her retirement from politics in order to focus on her acting once again.

Jackson is survived by her son, Dan Hodges.