Britain and the wider world are holding their breath after beloved actress, presenter and national treasure Joanna Lumley was rushed to hospital following a sudden medical emergency late last night. The 79-year-old star, best known for her iconic roles in Absolutely Fabulous, The New Avengers and countless charity campaigns, underwent emergency surgery for a stroke earlier today and has since spoken out from her hospital bed, telling well-wishers she is “still fighting” with the same grace and determination that has defined her extraordinary life.

The incident occurred shortly after Lumley attended a private charity dinner in central London. According to family members, she began experiencing severe headache and weakness in her left arm while leaving the event. Paramedics were called immediately, and she was transported to a specialist neurological unit where doctors confirmed an acute ischaemic stroke. Surgeons performed a successful thrombectomy procedure to remove a clot from a major cerebral artery, reportedly within the critical four-and-a-half-hour window that dramatically improves outcomes.

In a brief, handwritten note released by her family this afternoon — dictated to her husband Stephen Barlow and shared via her official social media — Lumley wrote: “Darlings, I’m still fighting. The doctors have been marvellous, my family even more so. I’m not going anywhere yet — too much left to do, too many people to love, too much laughter still to share. Thank you for every single message, every prayer, every kind thought. They’re keeping me going. More soon. With love, Joanna.”

The message, accompanied by a simple black-and-white photo of Lumley smiling from her hospital bed with her trademark sparkle still visible despite the ordeal, has been viewed more than 12 million times in just hours. Celebrities, politicians, charities and ordinary fans have flooded social media with support. Prime Minister Keir Starmer posted: “Joanna Lumley is a national treasure. The whole country is with you — get well soon.” Dame Judi Dench wrote: “Our darling girl — you’ve never been anything less than extraordinary. We’re all holding your hand.” Sir Elton John added: “Joanna, you’ve brought light to so many lives. Now let us send that light back to you.”

Lumley’s career spans more than five decades, from her breakthrough as Purdey in The New Avengers to her unforgettable turn as Patsy Stone in Absolutely Fabulous, and from presenting landmark documentaries to tireless campaigning for animal rights, Gurkha veterans and women’s causes. Her warmth, wit and unwavering grace have made her one of the most universally loved figures in British public life.

The stroke has shocked the nation not only because of Lumley’s enduring vitality but because she had recently appeared in excellent health during a Christmas special and charity gala. Friends say she had been working non-stop on multiple projects, including a new documentary series and a stage production planned for later this year.

Medical experts note that while the thrombectomy was successful and early intervention greatly improves prognosis, recovery from stroke in older adults can be long and challenging. Lumley faces intensive rehabilitation, speech therapy, physiotherapy, and monitoring for secondary complications. Her family has asked for privacy during this time but expressed profound gratitude for the outpouring of love.

The incident has also reignited conversations about stroke awareness, particularly in older adults. The Stroke Association reported a surge in website traffic and donations following the news, with many people sharing personal stories and urging others to learn the FAST test (Face, Arms, Speech, Time) for recognizing stroke symptoms.

For now, Britain waits, hopes, and sends love. Joanna Lumley — actress, activist, icon — has spent a lifetime lifting others up. Tonight, the nation is lifting her. Get well soon, Joanna. The country isn’t ready to let your light go out.