At 83, Miriam Margolyes, the beloved actress famous for her role as Professor Sprout in Harry Potter, has opened up about her health, aging, and mortality. Known for her unfiltered honesty and sharp wit, Margolyes recently revealed that she doesn’t believe she has “long to live,” reflecting on her life and career with her characteristic humor.
Margolyes, who graced the cover of British Vogue for Pride month, spoke candidly about her struggles with body image and health. “I like my face—it’s kind, warm, and smiley. But I hate my body. I have a drooping belly and little twisted legs. I’m not thrilled with that,” she admitted. She also acknowledged that her love of indulgent foods, like fudge and cheesecake, has impacted her health. “I’ve limited my life because of my cravings. I shouldn’t have been so greedy. I should have been stronger,” she said.
Her health has declined in recent years. In 2023, Margolyes underwent heart surgery, receiving a cow’s aortic valve to replace her own. “I now have a cow’s heart,” she joked on the Table Manners podcast. “Well, not the whole heart, just the valve.” She also predicted that she might soon need a wheelchair due to her worsening back problems. “I have a bad back. I’m probably going to be in a wheelchair soon. You have to come to terms with what life throws at you,” she said.
Margolyes has been registered as disabled due to spinal stenosis, a condition that has significantly impacted her mobility. She now relies on a mobility scooter and has expressed frustration with the physical limitations of aging. “It’s limiting and depressing,” she told Radio Times. “I want to play parts that aren’t just sitting in wheelchairs, but I’m not strong enough.”
Despite her health challenges, Margolyes remains as sharp and witty as ever. She has also shared her concerns about the financial implications of her declining health. “I’m worried I won’t have enough money for carers when I finally get paralyzed or whatever is going to happen to me,” she said. “I’m saving up cash so I can pay people to look after me and my partner.” Margolyes has been in a relationship with Heather Sutherland since 1968, and the couple has no children, which adds to her concerns about future care.
Margolyes has never been one to shy away from discussing difficult topics, including death. “When you know you haven’t got long to live—and I’m probably going to die within the next five or six years, if not before—I’m loath to leave behind performing. It’s such a joy,” she told The Telegraph. Despite her physical limitations, her spirit remains unbreakable, and she continues to face life’s challenges with humor and courage.
Miriam Margolyes’ candid reflections remind us of the importance of resilience and humor in the face of adversity. Share your best wishes for this iconic actress in the comments below, and don’t forget to share her inspiring story with others.
