Helen Ryan

Helen Ryan, born on June 16, 1938, in Liverpool, Lancashire, is a distinguished British actress celebrated for her portrayals of royal figures. Her career took off with her compelling performances in the British television series *Edward the Seventh* (1975), where she played both Princess and Queen Alexandra, earning a BAFTA nomination for her exceptional work.

Ryan's versatility as an actress is evident in her varied roles, including her portrayal of Princess Alexandra in the acclaimed film *The Elephant Man* (1980) and her involvement in the Sherlock Holmes adaptation of "The Mazarin Stone." She further showcased her talent as Queen Wilhelmina of the Netherlands in the 2002 television drama *Bertie and Elizabeth*. Her extensive television credits also feature Madame Balzac in *Prometheus: The Life of Balzac* (1975) and Mrs. McFarlane in "The Norwood Builder," another Sherlock Holmes tale.

Among her filmography are notable works like *Clash of Loyalties* (1983), *Misunderstood* (1984), and *The Hawk* (1993). More recently, she took on the role of Peggy Roath, a personal aide to Queen Elizabeth II, in the fifth season of *The Crown* (2022). In 2023, she appeared as Thelma Scott in the BBC soap opera *Doctors*.

Ryan was previously married to theatre director Guy Slater, with whom she shares two children, Rebecca and Daniel.