Sue Johnston

Sue Johnston, born Susan Pammenter on 7 December 1943, is an English actress. She gained recognition for her roles in popular TV shows such as Sheila Grant in Brookside (1982–1990), Barbara Royle in The Royle Family (1998–2012), Grace Foley in Waking the Dead (2000–2011), Gloria Price in Coronation Street (2012–2014), and Miss Denker in Downton Abbey (2014–2015). Johnson has won the 2000 British Comedy Award for Best TV Comedy Actress and was nominated for the 2000 BAFTA TV Award for Best Comedy Performance for The Royle Family. Born in Warrington, Cheshire, she grew up in Prescot, Merseyside. Before pursuing acting, Johnston worked as a Higher Grade tax inspector and also worked for Brian Epstein.