Glynis Johns, known for playing Mrs. Winifred Banks in “Mary Poppins,” dies at 100
The entertainment world mourns the loss of the iconic British actress Glynis Johns, who passed away from natural causes at the age of 100. Johns made a lasting impact on both stage and screen with her talent and versatility.
Her most memorable role was that of Mrs. Winifred Banks in the 1964 Academy Award-winning Disney film, “Mary Poppins,” where she starred alongside Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke. Johns leaves behind a legacy of over 60 films, including “While You Were Sleeping” and “The Sundowners,” which earned her an Oscar nomination.
During her eight-decade career, Johns received numerous accolades, including a Tony Award and a Drama Desk Award, as well as nominations for a Golden Globe and a Laurence Olivier Award. She also made a mark on television with appearances in shows like “Cheers,” “Murder, She Wrote,” “The Love Boat,” and the 1960s “Batman” series.
Born in Pretoria, South Africa, on Oct. 5, 1923, Johns began her career at an early age, making her screen debut at 15 in “South Riding,” a British drama film. She went on to star in a variety of films and television series before landing the role of Mrs. Banks in “Mary Poppins.”
Following the success of “Mary Poppins,” Johns took the stage in the Stephen Sondheim musical “A Little Night Music” on Broadway, where she earned a Tony for her performance. She also spoke fondly of her work during an interview celebrating her 100th birthday, saying, “I loved doing it. I felt it.”
Glynis Johns leaves behind a lasting legacy in the entertainment industry and will be remembered for her exceptional contributions to film, television, and theater.