Actress Adjoa Andoh, known for her role as Lady Agatha Danbury in the Netflix series "Bridgerton," has avoided a driving ban despite being caught speeding for the fifth time. The 63-year-old successfully argued "exceptional hardship" at Lavender Hill Magistrates' Court, citing her need to drive to care for her elderly and frail mother.
Andoh pleaded guilty to exceeding the 20mph speed limit on February 13 while driving her Volvo on South Croxted Road in West Dulwich. She was fined £640 and ordered to pay £130 in costs and a £256 victim surcharge. She also received three penalty points, bringing her total to 12.
During the hearing, Andoh became emotional when describing her mother's health issues, which include osteoporosis, incontinence, and a history of cancer, and her father's recent passing. She explained that her 85-year-old mother lives alone in Bishop's Castle, Shropshire, a location with limited public transport options. Andoh stated that the journey from the nearest train station takes 40 minutes by car, and relies on her ability to drive for emergency visits and to provide essential support.
She detailed several instances where her presence was crucial, including when her mother fell off a step ladder and when a brother had to be flown in from Los Angeles to assist. Andoh expressed fears that a driving ban would leave her mother without adequate support, particularly given her mother's age and health vulnerabilities.
The court acknowledged that the decision to allow Andoh to keep her license was "borderline." The Bench Chairwoman warned her that she would not be able to use the same hardship argument for the next three years, suggesting that her mother might need to arrange for additional assistance.
Andoh's previous speeding convictions occurred on March 23, 2023; November 21, 2024; and January 31 and May 1 of the current year. The court heard she was driving at 25mph in a 20mph zone when caught by a speed camera.
This incident follows a period of public attention for Andoh, who previously commented on the "terribly white" appearance of the Buckingham Palace balcony during King Charles III's coronation coverage. She later described the event as "marvellous" and stated she did not intend to cause offense. Despite this, she accepted an MBE from Prince William in December.