Rachael Stirling's "All About My Mother" Celebrates Diana Rigg

Rachael Stirling's "All About My Mother" is a deeply personal and engaging tribute to her late mother, the celebrated actress Diana Rigg. The book, written by Stirling herself, delves into Rigg's life and career, presenting a "joyous love letter" that captures the essence of the iconic star. Rigg, known for her roles in "The Avengers" and for portraying complex female characters, is portrayed as a woman ahead of her time, particularly in her views on womanhood and equality.

Stirling's work highlights Rigg's refusal to conform to traditional expectations. The review points to Rigg's candid interview with Michael Parkinson, where she expressed a nuanced view on feminism, stating, "Why would I burn my bra? I need my bra." This quote underscores her practical approach to personal freedom and security, contrasting with the more radical feminist movements of her era. Rigg's perspective on marriage also reflected a modern outlook, as she observed in the same interview that many women viewed it as a source of security, a sentiment she did not personally share.

A significant portion of the tribute focuses on Rigg's groundbreaking role as Emma Peel in the 1960s spy series "The Avengers." Taking over from Honor Blackman, Rigg insisted on portraying her character, Emma Peel, not as a mere subordinate to Patrick Macnee's Steed, but as an equal and a symbol of female empowerment. Her professional tenacity extended to advocating for equal pay. When Rigg discovered that Macnee, and even the camera operator, earned more than she did, she demanded a raise and successfully secured it. Despite her achievements and assertiveness, the press at the time often labelled her as a "grasping diva." However, Rigg remained steadfast in her convictions, articulating her stance on equal pay decades later in an interview with Newsnight, stating, "Equal pay. That’s what feminism means to me, only that."

"All About My Mother" by Rachael Stirling is therefore more than just a biography; it is an intimate exploration of a remarkable woman's life, her professional achievements, and her enduring legacy. The book aims to capture Rigg's intelligence, wit, and her pioneering spirit in a world that was often slow to recognize women's contributions and rights. The review suggests that the book successfully conveys the warmth and complexity of Rigg, offering readers a chance to connect with the actress beyond her famous roles and understand the personal philosophy that guided her.