Diana Rigg, the legendary actress best known for her iconic roles in “Game of Thrones” and “The Avengers,” led a fascinating life both on and off the screen. Beyond her captivating performances, there are numerous intriguing aspects to her personal and professional journey that many may not be aware of. From her early beginnings on the stage to her groundbreaking television roles, Rigg’s career spanned decades and left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
In this article, we will explore ten interesting and lesser-known facts about the life of Diana Rigg, highlighting her remarkable achievements and experiences. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to her work, prepare to be amazed by the depth and breadth of Diana Rigg’s impact on the world of acting and beyond.
#1 She wanted to be an actress after dying in a play
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Reflecting on her teenage years, Diana Rigg reminisces about her role in the play “Wild Decembers,” where she portrayed a dying Emily Brontë. Set in the 1950s, the play centered on the Brontë family, with each member succumbing to tuberculosis. Rigg humorously recalls seizing every chance to cough over her fellow actors’ lines, adding a touch of dramatic flair to her performance.
#2 She helped pave the way for badass female characters on TV
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During an era when women on television were typically depicted as homemakers or helpless characters, Diana Rigg defied conventions. In the 1960s, she portrayed Emma Peel, a fearless secret agent who fearlessly fought adversaries with her karate skills on the British cult series “The Avengers.”
Rigg fondly recalls the significant impact her character had on viewers, as Mrs. Peel became a symbol of independence and intelligence. She shattered stereotypes, proving that women were just as capable and intelligent as their male counterparts.
#3 She happily walked away from the role that made her famous
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Although Emma Peel and her iconic leather catsuit brought her fame, Rigg recognized the importance of moving on from the role in 1968. Despite her gratitude for the character, she felt the need to explore new opportunities and grow as an actress.
Rigg explains, “I’m deeply grateful to the character, but I needed to move forward and to develop as an actress.” She realized that the roles offered to her at that time were merely imitations of Emma Peel, and she sought to challenge herself with fresh and diverse acting endeavors.
#4 She loved being a Bond Girl
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Rigg fondly reminisces about her role in the 1969 film “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service,” where she portrayed Tracy Draco, the love interest of James Bond. She describes the experience with great affection, highlighting the lavishness of the production. Rigg marvels at the extravagance, recalling how money seemed to be no object on set.
She recounts a memorable moment when she needed to glance at her watch for just ten seconds, prompting the arrival of a watchmaker with a case full of timepieces for her to choose from. Additionally, she mentions receiving a luxurious fox fur coat that she wore in the film as a gift from the production team. Despite her character’s tragic fate in the movie’s finale, Rigg’s memories of her time on set are filled with joy and appreciation.
#5 She did The Great Muppet Caper for her daughter
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Rigg reflects fondly on her experience playing Lady Holiday, a British fashion designer and jewelry heist victim, in the 1981 Muppet movie. She recalls the role with delight, emphasizing the joy it brought to her daughter, actress Rachel Stirling, who was a big fan of the Muppets at the time.
Rigg shares that she took the opportunity to invite her daughter and some friends to visit the set, where they had the chance to meet the beloved character Miss Piggy. The experience was not only enjoyable for Rigg but also provided a special memory for her daughter and her friends, making it a cherished moment for the entire family.
#6 She had never heard of Game of Thrones before reading the script
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When initially approached to portray Olenna Tyrell, the sharp-witted and politically astute matriarch in Game of Thrones, Rigg was unaware of the magnitude of the role. Admitting she hadn’t watched the series, she was drawn in by the quality of the scripts and the show’s impressive production values. However, it was the dynamic interactions between characters that became her favorite part of the experience.
Rigg fondly recalls the combative scenes she shared with her fellow cast members, emphasizing the memorable moments created through their interactions on screen. Despite her initial uncertainty, Rigg’s portrayal of Olenna Tyrell became a beloved aspect of the series, showcasing her talent and versatility as an actress.
#7 She loved her Thrones death scene
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“It’s a beautiful scene, and Nikolaj is wonderful,” Rigg reflects on her final moments on the show alongside co-star Nikolaj Coster-Waldau. She acknowledges the rarity of such well-written scenes on television and expresses gratitude for the opportunity to bring them to life.
Coster-Waldau echoes her sentiment, emphasizing the surprise and depth of the scene, and commending Rigg’s contribution to the series. He describes it as an honor to work alongside her, both on and off-screen, highlighting her intelligence, talent, and brilliance as an actress. Their mutual admiration for each other’s craft underscores the camaraderie and respect among the Game of Thrones cast.
#8 She is a lethal Scrabble player.
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“Diana Rigg’s prowess extends beyond the screen,” reveals her Thrones co-star Natalie Dormer, cautioning against challenging her in word games. Dormer admits to giving up after repeated losses. Rigg attributes her linguistic acumen to a lifelong affinity for words and poetry, a trait that impressed Thrones creators David Benioff and D.B. Weiss.
Recalling a remarkable incident, they share how Rigg’s meticulous preparation once led her to question a line months before filming, showcasing her dedication and attention to detail. This anecdote speaks volumes about Rigg’s professionalism and commitment to her craft, leaving an indelible impression on her colleagues both on and off-screen.
#9 She is a great storyteller.
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Aside from her word game victories, Diana Rigg regales her Thrones colleagues with captivating anecdotes from her early acting days in renowned theater companies, embellished with risqué tales of London’s vibrant theater scene. David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, in awe of her captivating narratives, suggest that Rigg’s life story merits a cinematic adaptation. With her wealth of experiences and colorful adventures, a film chronicling the Dame’s remarkable journey seems almost inevitable.
#10 She has no plans to slow down.
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Diana Rigg exudes gratitude for her life, considering herself immensely fortunate. Embracing her freedom, she indulges in travel, voracious reading, and cultural experiences like theater and concerts in the vibrant city of London. Looking ahead, Rigg remains ambitious, eager to explore new roles and theatrical challenges, fueled by a desire to continue expanding her repertoire while her mind and body are still vibrant.
