Reid, Beryl (1920-1996)

English comedian and actor. Originally a variety entertainer and soubrette-cum-impressionist, she made her name in the radio series Educating Archie (1952-56). She enjoyed a long television career with comedy series such as The Girl Most Likely (1957) and The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 133/4 (1985), and straight roles in . Smiley's People (1983) and Cracker (1993). The Killing of Sister George (1965, filmed 1968) established her as a serious actor and won her a Tony award on Broadway in 1966.

Other work includes the television series Man o' Brass (1964), The Hen House (1964), Alcock and Gander (1972), The Rivals (1970), Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy (1982), and The Irish RM (1983), and the films Star! (1968) and Entertaining Mr Sloane (1970).

Reid was born in Hereford, and first appeared on stage in a concert party at the Floral Hall, Bridlington, in 1936. She was a veteran of revues and pantomimes, and made her film debut in Spare a Copper (1940). Her most memorable comic creations for Educating Archie were the schoolgirl Monica and Midlands teddy girl Marlene.