So Ap-Peel-Ing

When they talk about the lack of strong women role models in the 1960s, I can't help but think about Emma Peel.

Public domain image

Diana Rigg as Emma Peel quickly became the star of The Avengers, a British TV spy thriller. Emma, a sleek, sexy but very feisty female character could take care of herself, thank you very much. Alongside Patrick McNee as John Steed (the very definition of dapper), she fought crime as an intelligence agent. The show was suspenseful in an understated way. Not big on car crashes and macho displays of force. Rather, psychological and smart.

A fictional and unlikely character, perhaps, but one of my favorites.

Alas, Dame Diana Rigg passed away this week at the age of 82. But my, what a run she had. 

Leaving Mrs. Peel behind, Rigg took on a role in the Bond Film, On Her Majesty's Service, enjoying the distinction of being the only Bond girl who marries the commitment-shy action figure. Alas, she had to be killed off in the final frame to make way for the next Bond girl. 

A classically trained actress, Diana Rigg returned to the stage many times throughout her career, in a slew of theater productions both here and across the pond.

Rigg hosted the PBS Mystery series for many years, although she professed she wasn't a big fan of the genre herself. And from 1998-2000, she starred in The Mrs. Bradley Mysteries. 

Her swan song was the role of Lady Olenna Tyrell on Game of Thrones, which earned her four Emmy nominations.

Talk about a life well-lived.

Still, I will always and forever look back most fondly to her Emma Peel character. And that fabulous cat suit. 

How I wish I could have EVER carried off that look.