Amanda Redman: The Story of a British Screen Legend

Amanda Jacqueline Redman is one of Britain’s most respected actresses, known for her powerful performances and enduring presence on both stage and screen. From her acclaimed television work in New Tricks to her heartfelt role in The Good Karma Hospital, Redman’s journey in the entertainment industry spans more than four decades. Her life story — marked by early tragedy, resilience, and talent — has made her an inspiration to many.

Early Life and Background

Born on August 12, 1957, in Brighton, Sussex, England, Amanda Jacqueline Redman grew up in a creative yet modest household. Her father, Ronald Jack Redman (1929–1980), was from Camberwell, London, while her mother, Joan Beryl Redman (née Herrington) (1927–2014), was born in Quetta, then part of British India. Joan’s father served in the British Indian Army, giving the family a rich multicultural background.

Amanda’s childhood was far from ordinary. At only 18 months old, she suffered a devastating accident when a pan of boiling soup spilled over her body. The burns covered much of her skin and left her left arm permanently scarred. Despite this trauma, Amanda has spoken candidly about how the experience shaped her strength, confidence, and compassion.

She later trained at the prestigious Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, where she honed her acting skills alongside other future stars, including Daniel Day-Lewis and Miranda Richardson. This early education laid the foundation for a long and distinguished acting career.

Age

As of November 2025, Amanda Redman is 68 years old, continuing to remain active in television and charity work.

Career Highlights

Television Success

Amanda Redman’s television career brought her national fame. She became a household name through her role as Detective Superintendent Sandra Pullman in the BBC’s hit series New Tricks (2003–2013). The show ran for a decade and showcased her as a tough, intelligent, and charismatic lead — a role that cemented her place in British television history.

Before that, she starred as Alison Braithwaite in At Home with the Braithwaites (2000–2003), playing a middle-class wife whose life changes after winning the lottery. The series earned her a BAFTA nomination for Best Actress, highlighting her ability to blend comedy and drama seamlessly.

In more recent years, Amanda captured hearts again as Dr. Lydia Fonseca in The Good Karma Hospital (2017–2022), a medical drama set in rural India. Her performance was praised for its warmth, authority, and emotional depth.

Film Work

While best known for television, Amanda Redman has also had memorable roles on the big screen. Her notable film credits include:

• Sexy Beast (2000) — as Deedee Dove, alongside Ray Winstone and Ben Kingsley.
• For Queen & Country (1988) — playing Stacey in a gritty post-war drama.
• Mike Bassett: England Manager (2001) — a satirical take on English football, where she played Karine Bassett.

Her wide-ranging performances show her versatility and command of both drama and comedy.

Stage and Other Work

Amanda has also enjoyed an extensive theatre career, performing in both classical and contemporary productions. Beyond acting, she founded the Artists Theatre School, offering professional drama training to aspiring young performers — a reflection of her dedication to nurturing the next generation of talent.

Awards and Recognition

Amanda Redman’s contributions to drama have earned her multiple honors:

• BAFTA TV Award nominations for At Home with the Braithwaites and Tommy Cooper: Not Like That, Like This (2014).
• Appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2012 for services to drama and charity.

Her recognition by the Crown underscores her importance not just as an actress but also as a mentor and humanitarian.

Net Worth

Amanda Redman’s long and successful career has earned her significant financial stability. As of 2024, her net worth is estimated at around $5 million USD. In a 2015 interview with The Telegraph, she revealed that her first film role paid her £5,000 — a humble beginning compared to her later success. Her earnings have come primarily from television roles, stage work, and teaching.

Family and Relationships

First Marriage: Robert Glenister

In 1984, Amanda married fellow actor Robert Glenister, known for his roles in Hustle and Spooks. The couple had one daughter, Emily Glenister, before divorcing in 1992. Despite their separation, both Amanda and Robert remained respectful of each other’s careers and co-parented their daughter amicably.

Emily followed in her parents’ footsteps, training at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School — just like her mother — and pursuing her own creative career.

Second Marriage: Damian Schnabel

After her divorce, Amanda met Damian Schnabel, a designer and producer. The couple began dating in 1999, briefly split up, but reunited and married on September 4, 2010. Their relationship has been described as warm, grounded, and built on mutual respect.

Though the couple does not have children together, they’ve maintained a close-knit family life centered on shared interests in the arts and philanthropy.

Parents and Upbringing

Amanda’s father, Ronald Jack Redman, passed away in 1980 when she was just 23, leaving a deep void in her life. Her mother, Joan, passed away in 2014. Amanda has spoken fondly of her parents’ strong moral values. In an interview with The Guardian, she recalled her family’s brief time in South Africa during her childhood — where her parents refused to support apartheid, teaching her early lessons about integrity and justice.

Personal Challenges and Resilience

Amanda’s life has not been without hardship. Her childhood accident left her with lifelong scars, both physical and emotional, but she has often emphasized that those scars do not define her. Instead, they became symbols of survival and courage.

In interviews, she has discussed the difficulties she faced in her youth, including self-consciousness about her appearance. Over time, however, she learned to embrace her uniqueness, even inspiring others with visible scars to feel confident in their own skin.

Legacy and Continuing Influence

Amanda Redman’s legacy in British entertainment is one of endurance and excellence. Her portrayals of strong, intelligent, and empathetic women have resonated with audiences for decades. From the crime-solving brilliance of Sandra Pullman to the nurturing compassion of Dr. Lydia Fonseca, her characters showcase both vulnerability and strength — qualities that mirror her own life story.

Beyond acting, her charitable work and her role as the founder of the Artists Theatre School have cemented her influence in nurturing future stars. Her MBE honor reflects her dual commitment to performance and community service.

Even in her late 60s, Amanda continues to take on creative projects and remains active in supporting drama education and British theatre. She stands as a shining example of how determination and love for one’s craft can lead to a lifelong, fulfilling career.

Conclusion

From her early days in Brighton to the global recognition she enjoys today, Amanda Redman’s story is a powerful blend of talent, perseverance, and grace. Despite facing personal tragedy at an early age, she rose to become one of the UK’s most beloved actresses.

Her decades-long career in television, film, and theatre has not only entertained millions but also inspired countless aspiring actors. Today, Amanda Redman continues to represent the best of British acting — resilient, passionate, and endlessly dedicated to her craft.

— Article written for fanzineblog