"I adore Bette Davis and Vivien Leigh, but more because they were good actresses. That's what makes me interested in them, that they didn't present themselves as idols; they were just doing their jobs"

Imelda Staunton’s reflection on Bette Davis and Vivien Leigh reveals an admiration that is rooted not in celebrity or glamour, but in artistry and professionalism. Rather than idolizing these legendary actresses for their status, Staunton values them for the integrity and commitment they brought to their craft. By highlighting that Davis and Leigh did not present themselves as idols, Staunton draws a clear distinction between fame for its own sake and the respect earned by skill, dedication, and authenticity.

Both Davis and Leigh are often remembered as icons, their personas preceding them in popular culture. However, Staunton’s words suggest that what truly defines their legacy is their approach to acting as a vocation, not a pedestal. They focused on the work itself, immersing themselves in complex roles and delivering performances that have stood the test of time. Staunton expresses a preference for this humility and work ethic, admiring that their primary concern was the quality of their performances rather than the cultivation of a glamorous public image or the trappings of stardom.

There is an implicit critique of celebrity culture in Staunton's observation. She seems wary of modern tendencies to idolize actors for reasons disconnected from their actual talent or hard work. The true greatness of Davis and Leigh, in her eyes, lies in their seriousness about the profession, actors who saw themselves not as objects of worship but as artisans dedicated to their chosen field.

Staunton’s comment also reveals her own values as an actress: a belief that lasting respect is earned through the honest pursuit of one’s craft. By focusing on their professionalism, she finds inspiration not in their fame, but in their grounded, skillful approach to acting, a reminder that the essence of true artistry lies in dedication, not idolatry.