Eileen Atkins, 86
Dame Eileen Atkins has been active in the entertainment industry since 1953. But it took until 2008 for her to win the accolades she deserved for her undoubted talent. She eventually won both a BAFTA TV Award and an Emmy Award for her role in the mini-series Cranford.
She gained recognition for her stage Work much earlier, winning three Olivier Awards for her roles in productions like The Unexpected Man and Honour. As a screenwriter, she co-created the drama series Upstairs, Downstairs, and The House of Elliot. She also featured in shows like The Dresser, Gosford Park, and Robin Hood.