Who was Johan Tham? Inside the life of Jenny Agutter husband who died days before Christmas
Jenny Agutter mourns husband Johan Tham after cancer battle
Call the Midwife star Jenny Agutter is grieving the loss of her husband Johan Tham, who has died aged 81 following a battle with cancer, just days before Christmas. The Swedish-born property entrepreneur and hotelier passed away on November 17, it has been confirmed.
The couple, who were married for more than three decades, shared a deeply private life away from the spotlight, despite Agutter’s status as one of Britain’s most recognisable actresses. News of Tham’s death has prompted an outpouring of sympathy from fans of the BBC period drama and beyond.
Who Was Johan Tham? The Visionary Hotelier Behind Cliveden House
Johan Tham was best known for his pivotal role in restoring Cliveden House, the historic Grade I-listed estate in Buckinghamshire once described by Queen Victoria as “dear, beautiful Cliveden.”
Through his company Blakeney Hotels, Tham took on the ambitious project in 1984, transforming the then-declining property, used by the National Trust as student accommodation, into one of Britain’s most prestigious luxury hotels.
As managing director, Tham embraced Cliveden’s theatrical past, reviving its glamour while preserving its historical significance. Under his stewardship, the estate once again welcomed high-profile guests and reclaimed its place in British cultural life.
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How Jenny Agutter and Johan Tham Met
Jenny Agutter and Johan Tham first met in 1989 at the Bath Literary Arts Festival, a meeting that would quietly change both their lives. Agutter later revealed that Tham had no idea who she was when they were introduced, something she said made their relationship refreshingly authentic.
Speaking previously, the actress reflected on the early days of their romance, explaining that Tham’s curiosity about who she was as a person, rather than as a celebrity, helped build a strong and lasting bond.
The couple married in August 1990, and welcomed their son Jonathan later that year.
A Family Life Largely Lived Out of the Spotlight
Despite Agutter’s global fame, spanning classics such as The Railway Children, Walkabout, An American Werewolf in London, and Call the Midwife, the couple maintained a notably grounded family life.
Their son Jonathan was born five weeks early on Christmas Day, a dramatic arrival Agutter has spoken about candidly in interviews. Jonathan is now a London-based GP specialising in sleep medicine.
Tham also had children from a previous marriage, including a daughter, Johanna, now a special needs teacher.
Jenny Agutter’s Enduring Popularity on Call the Midwife
Agutter, now 73, remains a firm fan favourite for her portrayal of Sister Julienne on Call the Midwife, a role she has played since the series first aired in 2012.
The character, known for being stern yet compassionate, has become a cornerstone of the BBC drama, with Agutter often described as the emotional anchor of Nonnatus House.
She is set to return in the Call the Midwife Christmas special, filmed in Hong Kong, which will air on Christmas Day, a poignant moment following her husband’s death.
A Career Spanning More Than Six Decades
Born in Taunton, Somerset, on December 20, 1952, Jenny Agutter’s career spans more than 60 years. She began acting as a child after being spotted at Elmhurst Ballet School and has since appeared in some of British cinema’s most iconic productions.
Her enduring success, combined with a private and long-lasting marriage, has earned her admiration both on and off screen.
FAQ
Who was Jenny Agutter’s husband?
Jenny Agutter’s husband was Johan Tham, a Swedish-born property entrepreneur and hotelier best known for restoring Cliveden House into a luxury hotel.
How did Johan Tham die?
Johan Tham died following a battle with cancer, aged 81.
When did Johan Tham pass away?
He passed away on November 17, just weeks before Christmas.
How long were Jenny Agutter and Johan Tham married?
The couple were married for over 30 years, having wed in August 1990.
Did Jenny Agutter and Johan Tham have children?
Yes. They have one son, Jonathan, who is now a GP in London.
What is Johan Tham known for?
Tham is widely known for reviving Cliveden House, one of Britain’s most famous historic estates.
Is Jenny Agutter still acting?
Yes. Jenny Agutter continues to star as Sister Julienne in Call the Midwife and appears in the 2025 Christmas special.
How old is Jenny Agutter?
Jenny Agutter is 73 years old, born on December 20, 1952.
What other films is Jenny Agutter famous for?
She is known for The Railway Children, Walkabout, An American Werewolf in London, and Captain America: The Winter Soldier.