Clarissa Dickson Wright was an English television cook, personality, businesswoman, and former barrister. She is best known for her role in the popular cooking show, Two Fat Ladies, alongside Jennifer Paterson.
Personal and Family Life
Born on June 24, 1947, in St. John’s Wood, London, Clarissa was educated at Sacred Heart School. She pursued law at University College London and became the youngest woman to be called to the Bar. After a successful career as a barrister, Clarissa discovered her passion for cooking while working at Books for Cooks in London, especially after overcoming her struggles with alcohol addiction.
Career Highlights
After her journey into cooking, Clarissa and Jennifer Paterson created a pilot for their show, Two Fat Ladies, in 1994, which led to a three-season series aired globally. In addition to her cookery fame, Clarissa featured in other TV programs, including Clarissa and the Countryman and Absolutely Fabulous, and contributed to various documentaries and shows such as Art School and Victoria Wood’s Nice Cup of Tea.
Death and Legacy
Clarissa Dickson Wright passed away on March 15, 2014, due to pneumonia at the Edinburgh Royal Infirmary. She left behind a legacy as a celebrated chef and television personality, known for her strong personality and love for the countryside. Her autobiography, Spilling The Beans, and her various media appearances secured her place in British entertainment history.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Clarissa & the King’s Cookbook | 2008-03-01 | Herself |
| Victoria Wood’s Nice Cup of Tea | 2013-04-10 | Self |
| How To Get Ahead at Medieval Court | 2014-03-12 | Herself |
| The One Show | 2006-08-14 | Self |
| Countdown | 1982-11-02 | |
| Two Fat Ladies | 1996-10-09 | Cook/Herself |
| One Man and His Dog | 1976-02-17 | |
| This Morning | 1988-10-03 | Self |
| Absolutely Fabulous | 1992-11-12 | Clarissa |
| The Alan Titchmarsh Show | 2007-09-03 | Self |
| Art School | 2005-09-12 | |
| The Michael Ball Show | 2010-08-16 | Self |
| Britain’s Best Sitcom | 2004-01-10 | Guest presenter |
| Loose Women | 1999-09-06 | Self |