Diana Rigg was born on July 20, 1938, in Doncaster, England. She was raised in a middle-class family, with her father, a railway executive, and her mother, a former actress. Rigg showed an early interest in drama and pursued her passion by enrolling in the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), where she trained in acting. After graduation, she began her career in theatre, quickly earning recognition for her exceptional talent. Her breakthrough role came in the early 1960s when she was cast as the iconic Emma Peel in the television series The Avengers (1965–1968), which catapulted her to international fame.
Rigg’s portrayal of the sophisticated, strong, and witty spy made her a cultural icon. She became one of the first women to be seen as a modern, feminist heroine on television, and her character resonated deeply with viewers. Beyond The Avengers, Rigg had a diverse career, taking on roles in both classic theatre and film. She was particularly noted for her work with the Royal Shakespeare Company, where she played leading roles in Shakespearean classics such as King Lear and Macbeth. Throughout her career, Rigg established herself as one of the most respected actresses in the world, known for her elegance, poise, and formidable stage presence.
Her later career continued to be marked by a variety of high-profile roles, including playing Olenna Tyrell in the hit TV series Game of Thrones (2013–2017). Rigg’s performance as the sharp-witted matriarch earned her a new generation of fans and showcased her enduring versatility. She was made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 1994 for her services to drama. Diana Rigg’s legacy as one of the most accomplished actresses of her time remains solidified by her incredible range and influence on both stage and screen.
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Cars Owned by Dame Diana Rigg
While Diana Rigg was not particularly known for her love of cars, she did have an affinity for practical and stylish vehicles. One of the cars associated with her was a vintage Jaguar E-Type, which is often regarded as one of the most iconic sports cars of the 1960s. Known for its sleek design and smooth driving experience, the Jaguar E-Type was a fitting choice for an actress of Rigg’s stature during her prime. The car mirrored her elegance and sophistication, much like her own on-screen persona.
In addition to her Jaguar, it is known that Rigg also owned a Mercedes-Benz, a vehicle that reflected her mature taste as she got older. The German luxury car brand is synonymous with comfort, style, and reliability, qualities that matched Rigg’s personality both on and off-screen. Rigg’s cars were relatively understated compared to some of her contemporaries, but they certainly reflected her taste for classic, timeless quality.
Houses Owned by Dame Diana Rigg
Diana Rigg was known to be a private person, and details about her personal life and homes were often kept out of the public eye. However, she did own several homes over the years, including a stunning property in the Cotswolds, a picturesque region in the English countryside. Her home was described as a beautiful, rural retreat that offered her privacy and tranquility, allowing her to escape the hustle and bustle of London life. The Cotswolds home was a sanctuary, a place where Rigg could enjoy the peace and quiet, as well as spend time with her family.
Rigg also owned a flat in London, which served as her base when working in the city. The apartment was reported to be tastefully decorated, reflecting her sophisticated and understated style. London remained a central part of her life, particularly during her later career when she performed in numerous stage productions in the West End. Though much of her property portfolio was kept out of the spotlight, it is clear that Rigg valued comfort and privacy in her living spaces.
How Dame Diana Rigg Made Her Money
Diana Rigg made her fortune primarily through her long and successful career as an actress. Her early fame came from her role in The Avengers, but it was her versatility across stage, television, and film that ensured her financial success. Rigg’s roles in high-profile productions such as The Avengers, The Game of Thrones, and numerous stage performances with the Royal Shakespeare Company helped her build a substantial income.
In addition to her television and film work, Rigg was a prominent figure in the world of theatre. She had a successful career on the West End stage, where she starred in critically acclaimed productions like Medea and Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?. These performances earned her a great deal of recognition and financial reward. Rigg also received a significant income from her work in advertising and endorsements, though she was known to remain selective about her public appearances and commitments.
Net Worth of Dame Diana Rigg
Dame Diana Rigg’s net worth at the time of her passing in September 2020 was estimated to be around $10 million. This fortune was largely accumulated through her extensive career in television, theatre, and film. Her long-standing presence in the entertainment industry, combined with her work on iconic shows like The Avengers and Game of Thrones, allowed her to enjoy financial stability throughout her life.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Dame Diana Rigg |
| Date of Birth | July 20, 1938 |
| Marital Status | Widowed (married to Philip Saville, 1973–1976) |
| Number of Siblings | 1 (Brother, named John Rigg) |
| Number and Name of Children | 1 (Rachael Stirling) |
| Occupation | Actress |
| Net Worth | $10 million |