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Edith Evans
Legendary stage performer acclaimed for her precise diction, ironic delivery and forthright acting style who won renown for her performances in Shakespeare, Shaw, Wilde and Restoration comedies. After appearing in two early silent films, Evans did not return to the screen until 1948. Her definitive portrayal of Oscar Wilde's Lady Bracknell in "The Importance of Being Earnest" was captured on screen in 1952, and in her 70s and 80s she created a bevy of memorable characters in such films as "Tom Jones" (1963) and "The Whisperers" (1967).