Quentin Crisp

:For the writer of supernatural fiction, see Quentin S. Crisp

Last years

Crisp remained fiercely independent and unpredictable into old age. He caused controversy in the gay community by calling AIDS 'a fad', and homosexuality 'a terrible disease', and famously commented on the death of Diana, Princess of Wales. However he was continually in demand from journalists requiring a sound-bite and throughout the nineties his commentary was sought on any number of topics.

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In 1993 he was persuaded by Sally Potter to play Elizabeth I in her film of Orlando and although found the role taxing, won acclaim for a dignified and touching performance.

Related Topics:
1993 - Sally Potter - Elizabeth I - Orlando

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An earlier movie appearance in the 1985 film The Bride brought him into contact with Sting, who later wrote the song Englishman in New York about him, which contains the lines: It takes a gentleman to suffer ignorance and smile, Be yourself no matter what they say.

Related Topics:
1985 - Sting - Englishman in New York

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In his final volume of memoirs, Resident Alien published in 1996 Crisp states that he is close to the end of his life. However, a humorous pact he had made with Penny Arcade to live to one hundred with ten years off for good behaviour proved to be a prophecy.

Related Topics:
1996 - Penny Arcade

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He died shortly before his ninety-first birthday in Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Greater Manchester, on the eve of a nationwide revival of his one-man show. His body was cremated with the minimum of ceremony, his ashes flown back to New York and scattered over Manhattan.

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