Lapotaire’s career extended successfully into television, where she reached a broad audience through acclaimed series. She appeared in The Crown as Princess Alice of Battenberg and in Downton Abbey as Princess Irina Kuragin. Her performances in these roles were widely recognized for their authenticity and emotional nuance. Despite facing serious health challenges, including a brain hemorrhage in 2000, she made a determined return to acting and later shared her experiences through writing.
Only weeks before her passing, Lapotaire received the honor of Commander of the Order of the British Empire, recognizing her contributions to drama. She is survived by her son, Rowan Joffe. Tributes from fans and colleagues highlight her lasting influence as an artist whose work resonated across generations. Her legacy remains rooted in a career that combined resilience, talent, and a deep commitment to storytelling.