Patricia Greene, best known for her long-running role as Jill Archer in the BBC radio drama The Archers, had a remarkable early career that included working as a bus conductor alongside actor Alan Bates. In a letter to the editor, a reader recalls Greene's early life and her brief involvement with the film This Sporting Life.
Bus conductor and chance encounters
While a drama student in London during the Festival of Britain in 1951, Greene—known as Paddy to friends—worked as a conductor on the No 38 bus. Her great friend Alan Bates also worked on the buses, and they would wave from the rear platform when they passed each other in Piccadilly Circus. Through Bates, she was later introduced to director Lindsay Anderson, who was about to make his first film.
Lost lead role in This Sporting Life
Greene was thrilled and completely stunned to be offered the lead role opposite the then-unknown Richard Harris in This Sporting Life (1963). However, after rehearsals began, distributors worried that the film lacked a star name. When Rachel Roberts suddenly became available, Greene was let go and Roberts replaced her. At the time, Greene was devastated, but years later she became philosophical. Roberts died far too early after suffering from depression.
A beloved career in The Archers
Greene went on to have a long career doing the job she absolutely loved, playing Jill, the heartbeat of The Archers, for decades. Her portrayal of Jill Archer made her a beloved figure to millions of listeners.
