Diana Rigg, Game of Thrones and The Avengers actress, dead at 82

By Allison Matyus September 10, 2020

Diana Rigg as Olenna Tyrell in Game of Thrones HBO

Actress Dame Diana Rigg, best known for her roles in the TV spy series The Avengers and the megahit Game of Thrones, died Thursday, September 10.

She was 82 years old.

Rigg died surrounded by her family after suffering from cancer that was diagnosed in March, according to a statement from her family.

Rigg “spent her last months joyfully reflecting on her extraordinary life, full of love, laughter, and a deep pride in her profession,” her daughter, actress Rachael Stirling, told the Associated Press. ”I will miss her beyond words.”

Many baby boomers would recognize her for her role in The Avengers TV series which ran from 1961-1968, in which she played the role of secret agent Emma Peel. She reportedly auditioned for the role on a whim.

Diana Rigg in 1961 as Emma Peel in The Avengers TV series. Sunset Boulevard / Getty Images

Rigg first appeared on the silver screen in The Assassination Bureau in 1969. She later played James Bond’s wife, Tracy Bond, in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.

Rigg shot back into stardom thanks to her role on Game of Thrones, where she played Lady Olenna Tyrell from 2013-2017. The role, which became a fan-favorite, earned her four Primetime Emmy nominations.

She was given the title of Dame, a British order of chivalry, in 1994 in recognition of her many years of contributions to drama. In her career that spanned more than 11 decades, she received BAFTA, Emmy, Tony, and Evening Standards Awards.

Rigg is survived by her daughter, Rachael Stirling; her son-in-law, Guy Garvey, and her grandson, Jack Stirling Garvey.

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