Richard E Grant’s spouse, Joan Washington, passed away in September 2021, following an eight-month battle with lung cancer. The renowned actor, known for his role in “The Other Bennet Sister” on BBC, mourned her loss, praising her as a strong and protective figure.
In a recent podcast interview in 2025, Richard shared a touching anecdote about Joan’s humor and love for him. Despite her illness, Joan humorously vetoed any thoughts of Richard dating after her, demonstrating her deep affection and care for him.
Richard, who has a daughter named Olivia with Joan, expressed his gratitude for their time together and emphasized that he is not currently seeking new romantic connections. Reflecting on his grief, he acknowledged the void left by her passing.
Moving forward, Richard is set to portray Mr. Bennet in the upcoming BBC series “The Other Bennet Sister,” a role he had long aspired to play. The story focuses on Mary Bennet, an overlooked family member portrayed as a quiet observer. Richard praised the production and highlighted the relevance of the themes explored in the narrative, emphasizing the enduring appeal of family dynamics depicted in the classic story by Jane Austen.
Looking ahead to the premiere of the series, Richard hopes viewers will find joy in discovering Mary’s untold story and believes it is time for her character to shine on screen.
“The Other Bennet Sister” will air tonight on BBC One at 8pm.