Carry On Memories
Over the years of collecting all things 'Carry On' I have been lucky to exchange letters with a number of the supporting cast members of the 'Carry On' films.
Some of these people are often overlooked & many seem to have disappeared into 'Carry On' memory. However, that was until I tracked them down!
Here is a selection of memories & anecdotes from those who 'Carried On' at some stage during the series:
Some of these people are often overlooked & many seem to have disappeared into 'Carry On' memory. However, that was until I tracked them down!
Here is a selection of memories & anecdotes from those who 'Carried On' at some stage during the series:
Left to Right: Jeremy as 'Gunner Hiscocks' in 'England', 'Student with ice cream' in 'Behind' & 'Footpad' in 'Dick'.
Jeremy is of course the son of 'Carry On' regular Kenneth Connor. He followed in his fathers footsteps & his 'Carry On' debut was actually as Kenneth's son in 'Carry On Nurse' (1959). He went onto star in further minor roles in 'Carry On Constable' (1960), 'Carry On Dick' (1974), 'Carry On Behind' (1975) & 'Carry On England' (1976). In 2015 he participated in the ITV documentary 'Carry On Forever' along Peter Butterworth's son, Tyler. The pair reflected on their fathers & their friendship.
"The 'Carry On' following is still strong & rumours of a new generation of films has been blowing hot & cold for over two years now. All efforts seem to fail. I am in contact with Peter Butterworth's son, Tyler & 'Carry On' historian Robert Ross so I get all the gossip from them. Have you read my book 'Living with Kenneth Connor'? If not you might find it interesting"
- Taken from a letter from Jeremy Connor to myself in April 2017. Jeremy now lives with his family in New Zealand. His book 'Life with Kenneth Connor' by him & Paul Burton was released in 2014.
Brian starred in 'Carry On Matron' (1972), 'Carry On Abroad' (1972), 'Carry On Girls' (1973), 'Carry On Dick' (1974), 'Carry On Laughing' (TV Series 1975), 'Carry On Behind' (1975) & 'Carry On England' (1976). He has over 60 other credits to his name including classic such as 'Juliet Bravo', 'All Creatures Great & Small' & 'London's Burning'.
Left to Right: Brian as 'Stall-Holder' in 'Abroad', 'Browning' in 'Dick & 'Ambulance Driver' in 'Matron'.
"I feel very privileged to have been involved with the 'Carry On's', of which I did six. 'Matron' was my first 'Carry On' which was filmed in a new Maternity Hospital in Ascot. My first scene was as the Ambulance Driver with Hattie Jacques & Kenneth Williams. On my return home to Tunbridge Wells my wife gave me the news that she was pregnant with our first child, Helen. Crazy but true! I must say that I enjoyed my time on the films - the cast & crew were all a joy to be with"
- Taken from a letter from Brian Osborne to myself in January 2015.
Brian had lived with his family in France for many years until he sadly passed away in July 2021. He was always so very friendly and happy to chat about his career, he will be greatly missed.
Helli Louise Jacobson (oftern credited as 'Helli Louise') starred briefly in 'Carry On Behind' (1975).
She moved to the UK in the early 1970s, studying at the London Film School circa 1971 and developed a curious Copenhagen/Cockney accent along the way.
After a role in 1979’s 'The World Is Full of Married Men', she left acting to pursue work in the music industry full-time, and has since worked for Harvey Goldsmith.
She moved to the UK in the early 1970s, studying at the London Film School circa 1971 and developed a curious Copenhagen/Cockney accent along the way.
After a role in 1979’s 'The World Is Full of Married Men', she left acting to pursue work in the music industry full-time, and has since worked for Harvey Goldsmith.
Helli Louise in her famous 'shower scene' in 'Carry On Behind' alongside Peter Butterworth.
My 'Carry On Behind' DVD booklet signed by Helli.
"I think the funniest story about me being involved with the 'Carry On' is as follows; I was sitting in the canteen at the studios, I was doing another film ('Confessions of a Pop Performer' I think) & the Director of 'Carry On Behind' & Windsor Davies (who I had worked with before) came up to me and said that if I had a couple of hours free would I come and show my bum in a caravan? (for a very good fee!). So, that is how my involvement started, good eh? - Taken from a letter from Helli Louise to myself in October 2016.
Sadly Helli died in 2018. Since retiring she had lived with her partner in Bedfordshire.
Melita played 'Woman with Salad' in 'Carry On Behind' (1975).
Melita is also known for 'Adolf Hitler: My Part in His Downfall' (1973), & 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland' (1972).
"It seems a long time ago that I was a jobbing actor but I hadn't realised what an honour it was to have taken part in this film, albeit just a small part. It seems like another lifetime! I retired from acting in the early 1990's" - Taken from a letter from Melita Manger to myself in October 2016. Melita now lives in Wales where she works with her husband running a museum.
Melita is also known for 'Adolf Hitler: My Part in His Downfall' (1973), & 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland' (1972).
"It seems a long time ago that I was a jobbing actor but I hadn't realised what an honour it was to have taken part in this film, albeit just a small part. It seems like another lifetime! I retired from acting in the early 1990's" - Taken from a letter from Melita Manger to myself in October 2016. Melita now lives in Wales where she works with her husband running a museum.
Right: Melita in 'Carry On Behind' & my 'Behind' DVD booklet signed by Melita.
Valerie Van Ost was born on the 25th July 1944 in Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire.
She is best known for her appearance in four 'Carry On' films - 'Carry On Cabby' (1963), 'Carry On Don't Lose Your Head' (1966), 'Carry On Doctor' (1967) & 'Carry On Again Doctor' (1969). It is her scene with Sid James in 'Carry On Doctor' that was the most well known & used scene to promote the film. Valerie told me a few years ago that suddenly this now iconic image featuring herself with Sid was plastered on billboards all around London to promote the films release in 1967.
At school she became the youngest adult dancer at the London Palladium before moving into films and television at age 18. She also appeared in the horror genre in the Hammer horror film 'The Satanic Rites of Dracula' (1973) before retiring from performing in 1982 & forming a casting company with her husband. Valerie has previously told me that she has fond memories of her time on the 'Carry On's' but is now happily enjoying her retirement out of the limelight in the Country with her husband.
She is best known for her appearance in four 'Carry On' films - 'Carry On Cabby' (1963), 'Carry On Don't Lose Your Head' (1966), 'Carry On Doctor' (1967) & 'Carry On Again Doctor' (1969). It is her scene with Sid James in 'Carry On Doctor' that was the most well known & used scene to promote the film. Valerie told me a few years ago that suddenly this now iconic image featuring herself with Sid was plastered on billboards all around London to promote the films release in 1967.
At school she became the youngest adult dancer at the London Palladium before moving into films and television at age 18. She also appeared in the horror genre in the Hammer horror film 'The Satanic Rites of Dracula' (1973) before retiring from performing in 1982 & forming a casting company with her husband. Valerie has previously told me that she has fond memories of her time on the 'Carry On's' but is now happily enjoying her retirement out of the limelight in the Country with her husband.
"I am retired now & living peacefully & quietly in the country with my husband - so I'm afraid that I don't venture up to London or Pinewood for any of the 'Carry On' events.
I have been invited & I'm delighted to know that all those old films have such a keen collection of fans! It is quite remarkable that next year will be the 60th Anniversary of 'Carry On'!" - Taken from a letter to me from Valerie Van Ost in September 2017.
I have been invited & I'm delighted to know that all those old films have such a keen collection of fans! It is quite remarkable that next year will be the 60th Anniversary of 'Carry On'!" - Taken from a letter to me from Valerie Van Ost in September 2017.
Above: My 10 x 8 signed by Valerie; Right: Valerie & Sid in the famous shot from 'Carry On Doctor' & my signed DVD booklet from Valerie.
Sadly, Valerie passed away from cancer in 2019 at age 75.
Jenny White had a small but memorable role in 'Carry On Doctor' as the 'Nurse in the Bath'. Jenny is now retired from acting & helps run a family business in Wiltshire.
"I had great fun working on 'Carry On Doctor' at Pinewood, good days. The only problem was making sure that the 'bubble' level was kept up!
I was doing a quiz last night & the question was 'What was the first 'Carry On' film?'. I got it wrong! -Taken from a letter from Jenny to me in June 2015.
"I had great fun working on 'Carry On Doctor' at Pinewood, good days. The only problem was making sure that the 'bubble' level was kept up!
I was doing a quiz last night & the question was 'What was the first 'Carry On' film?'. I got it wrong! -Taken from a letter from Jenny to me in June 2015.
'Carry On Teacher' was the third film in the series to be made & by that stage the 'formula' for the early 'Carry On's' was becoming well refined. The film is special as it was the platform that launched the careers of many of its child stars. It also features the only 'Carry On' appearance by actress Rosalind Knight who plays the feisty 'Felicity Wheeler'.
Sadly some of those child stars who were part of 'The Saboteurs' are no longer with us. However, those that are were tracked down all these years later and were invited to 'go back to school' to discuss their memories of 'Carry On Teacher'!
Sadly some of those child stars who were part of 'The Saboteurs' are no longer with us. However, those that are were tracked down all these years later and were invited to 'go back to school' to discuss their memories of 'Carry On Teacher'!
George played 'Billy Haig' one of the key pupils & he was a featured and credited 'Saboteur' in the film. George was born in 1943 in Brentford, Middlesex, as George Michael Howell. This would have made him about 16 years old when he starred in 'Carry On Teacher'. He went onto appear in mumerous other TV roles into the 1990's, including 'Grange Hill'!
"The 'Carry On' survivors are fast becoming a rare breed. When I look back over the years, particularly the beginning of my career, & see that some of the stars I worked alongside were famous for being in silent, & the first 'Talkie' films, it makes me realise just how far removed the methods of seeking an audience have progressed. No VCR's, DVD's, only black & white live TV! Eeeek! Radio was the favourite. The lovely Bessie Love, taught me how to twirl a pair of six-guns! Google her, astonishing woman. No more than 5 feet tall & the Colt 45's she used weighed more than 2lbs each. Years later I saw Sammy Davis Jnr do similar in his act. He wouldn't have stood a chance against her! Ah, sweet memories." - Taken from a letter to me from George in July 2016.
"The 'Carry On' survivors are fast becoming a rare breed. When I look back over the years, particularly the beginning of my career, & see that some of the stars I worked alongside were famous for being in silent, & the first 'Talkie' films, it makes me realise just how far removed the methods of seeking an audience have progressed. No VCR's, DVD's, only black & white live TV! Eeeek! Radio was the favourite. The lovely Bessie Love, taught me how to twirl a pair of six-guns! Google her, astonishing woman. No more than 5 feet tall & the Colt 45's she used weighed more than 2lbs each. Years later I saw Sammy Davis Jnr do similar in his act. He wouldn't have stood a chance against her! Ah, sweet memories." - Taken from a letter to me from George in July 2016.
Left: Then & Now - The school used in 'Carry On Teacher', Drayton Secondary School in West Ealing.
Above: The opening credits to 'Carry On Teacher' listing the featured 'Saboteurs'.
Diana Beevers was born in 1944 in London. Her career in acting started in 1955 & she went onto appear in numerous other TV shows all the way up until 1990. Diana played Penelope 'Penny' Lee. She was a key pupil in the film & therefore received a credit.
"I was still at school when we made 'Carry On Teacher', and I went on to a full & successful adult acting career. I was very fortunate & later tunred to directing on the London Fringe, which I loved. Enjoy Broadway (I had mentioned that I was due to visit New York that year), although the UK has the best drama, actors & production values in the world, it seems to me." - Taken from a letter to me from Diana in September 2016.
"I was still at school when we made 'Carry On Teacher', and I went on to a full & successful adult acting career. I was very fortunate & later tunred to directing on the London Fringe, which I loved. Enjoy Broadway (I had mentioned that I was due to visit New York that year), although the UK has the best drama, actors & production values in the world, it seems to me." - Taken from a letter to me from Diana in September 2016.
Paul Cole was a prolific child actor, appearing in the likes of 'Please Turn Over', 'The Mouse On The Moon' & 'Billy Bunter'. He took part, along with Larry Dann and Richard O'Sullivan, in the DVD commentary for 'Teacher'. Paul played 'John Atkins' in 'Carry On Teacher', again a key pupil who appeared in the opening credits to the film.
In subsequent years Paul moved onto the other side of the camera turning to writing, directing & producing, most notably for the children's TV show 'The Tweenies'.
"It was a long time ago but I am sure that those of us who were involved in it remember it fondly. I have also sent you a copy of a call sheet from the shoot." - Taken from a letter to me from Paul Cole in December 2016.
In subsequent years Paul moved onto the other side of the camera turning to writing, directing & producing, most notably for the children's TV show 'The Tweenies'.
"It was a long time ago but I am sure that those of us who were involved in it remember it fondly. I have also sent you a copy of a call sheet from the shoot." - Taken from a letter to me from Paul Cole in December 2016.
Far Right: The call sheet for 'Carry On Teacher' (1959)
Richard O'Sullivan played 'Robin Stevens' in 'Teacher' & again his acting career proved a long one.
His main credits post 'Carry On' are in 'Man About the House' (1973-1976) & 'Me & My Girl' (1984-1988). His last role was in a short called 'Holed' in 1996.
Top (Left): Richard O'Sullivan with Kenneth Williams in 'Carry On Teacher'; Top (Right): My 'Carry On Teacher' DVD signed by Larry Dann, Richard O'Sullivan, Diana Beevers, Paul Cole & George Howell.
His main credits post 'Carry On' are in 'Man About the House' (1973-1976) & 'Me & My Girl' (1984-1988). His last role was in a short called 'Holed' in 1996.
Top (Left): Richard O'Sullivan with Kenneth Williams in 'Carry On Teacher'; Top (Right): My 'Carry On Teacher' DVD signed by Larry Dann, Richard O'Sullivan, Diana Beevers, Paul Cole & George Howell.
George Layton (born George Lowy on 2 March 1943 in Bradford, West Riding of Yorkshire) is an English actor, director, screenwriter and author.
He is best known for three television roles – junior doctor Paul Collier in the comedy series 'Doctor in the House' & its first two and last sequels 'Doctor at Large', 'Doctor in Charge' and 'Doctor at the Top', that of Bombardier 'Solly' Solomons in the first two series of 'It Ain't Half Hot Mum', & as Des the mechanic in early episodes of Minder. More recently, he stars in Heartbeat as a target of attempted murder because of an affair.
George's first & only appearance in the 'Carry On's' was, again, as a doctor in 'Carry On Behind' . His scene was alongside Kenneth Williams & Linda Hooks.
He is best known for three television roles – junior doctor Paul Collier in the comedy series 'Doctor in the House' & its first two and last sequels 'Doctor at Large', 'Doctor in Charge' and 'Doctor at the Top', that of Bombardier 'Solly' Solomons in the first two series of 'It Ain't Half Hot Mum', & as Des the mechanic in early episodes of Minder. More recently, he stars in Heartbeat as a target of attempted murder because of an affair.
George's first & only appearance in the 'Carry On's' was, again, as a doctor in 'Carry On Behind' . His scene was alongside Kenneth Williams & Linda Hooks.
In 2017 I met George at the NEC in Birmingham at a Film Convention. A few months earlier I had embarked on a project of designing new 'mock' posters for the 'Carry On' films that were planned but never made. Amongst these was 'Carry On Again Nurse'.
The title had been planned several times & George was approached by Peter rogers in the late 70's to write a script for the film in an attempt to revive the title that had in fact been the original title some years earlier in 1967 for what ended up as 'Carry On Doctor'.
The title had been planned several times & George was approached by Peter rogers in the late 70's to write a script for the film in an attempt to revive the title that had in fact been the original title some years earlier in 1967 for what ended up as 'Carry On Doctor'.
Above (Left): George as the Doctor in 'Carry On Behind', alongside Kenneth Williams & Linda Hooks; Above (Right): My 'mock' poster for 'Carry On Again Nurse' signed by George Layton at Birmingham NEC in 2017.
Unsure what reception my 'Again Nurse' attempt would receive, George was pleasantly surprised by my efforts & it clearly brought back a lot of nostalgia. We spent some time chatting about it. He told me how Peter Rogers had paid him for the script but never used it. He asked me to send him a copy, which I duly did, as he wanted to send a copy to the co-writer, Jonathan Lynn, who now lives in the USA.
In January 2018 I caught up with George again and asked him if he had any memories or anecdotes from his time working on 'Behind'...
"I remember that my scene was with Kenneth Williams when he was in the surgery for some sort of injury that turned out to be tomato ketchup I think! Kenneth was known for being a bit 'prickly' at the best of times, but he was a very professional & erudite man. They were done at break neck speed as you know. You got one take, two at most. Gerry Thomas (the Director) said to me 'I want you to go in with the scalpel & then we will cut'. So, I did the scene & as I went in with the scalpel, for some reason, Kenneth moved his foot and I ended up slicing his toe! Needless to say, he was FAR from happy! I felt really bad about it & so afterwards I sent him a card with an apology & an Elastoplast! (laughs). I never did get a reply!"
An extract from a conversation that I had with George Layton in January 2018.
In January 2018 I caught up with George again and asked him if he had any memories or anecdotes from his time working on 'Behind'...
"I remember that my scene was with Kenneth Williams when he was in the surgery for some sort of injury that turned out to be tomato ketchup I think! Kenneth was known for being a bit 'prickly' at the best of times, but he was a very professional & erudite man. They were done at break neck speed as you know. You got one take, two at most. Gerry Thomas (the Director) said to me 'I want you to go in with the scalpel & then we will cut'. So, I did the scene & as I went in with the scalpel, for some reason, Kenneth moved his foot and I ended up slicing his toe! Needless to say, he was FAR from happy! I felt really bad about it & so afterwards I sent him a card with an apology & an Elastoplast! (laughs). I never did get a reply!"
An extract from a conversation that I had with George Layton in January 2018.
Left: Valerie as Miss Smethurst in 'Carry On Matron' (1972).
Valerie Shute was born in 1945 in London, England as Valerie Shute-Baker. She is an actress, known for 'Carry On Matron' (1972), 'Carry On Again Doctor' (1969), 'Carry On Camping' (1969) & Carry on Loving (1970). She also appeared in 'Carry On Henry' (1971) but her scenes were cut from the final release.
Her most notable 'Carry On' appearance is possibly as the loved up girlfriend opposite Mike Grady in 'Carry On Loving'. The pair played the loved-up teenagers 'getting down to it' wherever they could, from the top of a bus, to the back of a car to a telephone box!
Her other credits include 'Emmerdale' (1980) & 'How We Used to Live (1981).
"One memory that I do have is from 'Carry On Camping'. We girls were being driven around in a coach which was supposed to be taking us to the camp site. Kenneth Williams & Hattie Jacques were also on it & they were singing old songs together. My involvement with the 'Carry On' films was a long time ago & much has happened to me since then".
Her most notable 'Carry On' appearance is possibly as the loved up girlfriend opposite Mike Grady in 'Carry On Loving'. The pair played the loved-up teenagers 'getting down to it' wherever they could, from the top of a bus, to the back of a car to a telephone box!
Her other credits include 'Emmerdale' (1980) & 'How We Used to Live (1981).
"One memory that I do have is from 'Carry On Camping'. We girls were being driven around in a coach which was supposed to be taking us to the camp site. Kenneth Williams & Hattie Jacques were also on it & they were singing old songs together. My involvement with the 'Carry On' films was a long time ago & much has happened to me since then".
Taken from a letter to me from Valerie in February 2018.
Ian Whittaker was born in 1928 in London, England. He is an actor & set decorator, known for 'The Remains of the Day' (1993), 'Alien' (1979) & 'Sense and Sensibility' (1995).
Ian starred as the young Medical Corporal in the very first 'Carry On' film, 'Carry On Sergeant' in 1958. He also had a minor role in 'Carry On Regardless' in 1961.
He has also appeared in two unrelated 'Frankenstein' films: 'The Revenge of Frankenstein' (1958) & Roger Corman's 'Frankenstein Unbound' (1990). His long acting career continued into the 1990's but he has also worked behind the camera as a set decorator on well known films such as 'Alien' (1979), 'Highlander' (1986), 'The Remains of the Day' (1993) & 'From Time to Time' in 2009 starring Maggie Smith.
2018 marks his 90th year & he currently lives in Dorset with his long term partner.
Ian starred as the young Medical Corporal in the very first 'Carry On' film, 'Carry On Sergeant' in 1958. He also had a minor role in 'Carry On Regardless' in 1961.
He has also appeared in two unrelated 'Frankenstein' films: 'The Revenge of Frankenstein' (1958) & Roger Corman's 'Frankenstein Unbound' (1990). His long acting career continued into the 1990's but he has also worked behind the camera as a set decorator on well known films such as 'Alien' (1979), 'Highlander' (1986), 'The Remains of the Day' (1993) & 'From Time to Time' in 2009 starring Maggie Smith.
2018 marks his 90th year & he currently lives in Dorset with his long term partner.
In February 2018 I had the pleasure of speaking with Ian about his career and, of course, Carry On.
Above: Ian adds his signature to my 'Carry On Sergeant' DVD alongside Shirley Eaton & Jack Smethurst.
CP: You did two Carry On's & of course you were in the very first, Carry On Sergeant, in 1958. Did you get the chance to do anymore?
IW: Well, for some reason I wasn’t very popular with the producers. I was RADA trained & was really quite a straight actor. They liked the eccentric characters like Kenneth Williams & Charlie Hawtrey. That wasn’t me & so I couldn’t really give them what they wanted.
CP: Do you have any specific memories of filming ‘Carry On Sergeant’?
IW: I don’t really. As an actor you go down for the day to do the job. Most directors are appalling as there is no introduction to the other cast members. You turn up, do your bit and leave.
CP: How about any memories from ‘Regardless’?
IW: Well, it is strange as I cannot even remember doing that! I am told that I did & I am there if you look on IMDb for example but have no memories of it.
CP: Did you know any of the ‘Carry On’ team well?
IW: I had known Kenneth sociably prior to 'Sergeant' as we had a mutual friend who was a First Assistant Director. We had been to each other’s homes many times & so I knew him quite well. I had worked with Sid in a straight part for a film called ‘Silent Enemy’. Barbara (Windsor) I knew from working with on a film called ‘The Boyfriend’.
IW: Well, for some reason I wasn’t very popular with the producers. I was RADA trained & was really quite a straight actor. They liked the eccentric characters like Kenneth Williams & Charlie Hawtrey. That wasn’t me & so I couldn’t really give them what they wanted.
CP: Do you have any specific memories of filming ‘Carry On Sergeant’?
IW: I don’t really. As an actor you go down for the day to do the job. Most directors are appalling as there is no introduction to the other cast members. You turn up, do your bit and leave.
CP: How about any memories from ‘Regardless’?
IW: Well, it is strange as I cannot even remember doing that! I am told that I did & I am there if you look on IMDb for example but have no memories of it.
CP: Did you know any of the ‘Carry On’ team well?
IW: I had known Kenneth sociably prior to 'Sergeant' as we had a mutual friend who was a First Assistant Director. We had been to each other’s homes many times & so I knew him quite well. I had worked with Sid in a straight part for a film called ‘Silent Enemy’. Barbara (Windsor) I knew from working with on a film called ‘The Boyfriend’.
CP: You went onto work behind the camera on some pretty significant films, ‘Alien’ for example.
IW: I did. Ridley Scott started out life as an Art Director too & so on ‘Alien’ you couldn’t suggest anything or be allowed to have your own ideas. He was a brilliant director but, for example, if there was a pot of geraniums on the windowsill that you have placed he would come up to them and move the 2 inches to the left or the right. He was like that.
CP: You mentioned Kenneth Williams earlier, what was he like?
IW: He was always on show, always. Whenever you saw him he would just go straight into the routine. He didn’t really have any rapport with people on a personal level & you never heard of any relationships or love affairs.
CP: Did you keep in contact with Kenneth throughout his career?
IW: Yes, but not really latterly. The last time I saw him was outside Great Portland Street Station. We were separated by a traffic island & so couldn’t really chat, but he went straight into the comedy routine (laughs).
CP: They don’t make them like that anymore which is surely why they could never bring back the ‘Carry On’s’?
IW: Well who would do it? Who do we have now that could do that? Plus, that humour has long since gone but remains so popular due to the nostalgia & as period pieces. We just don’t produce actors like that anymore. No one is around to replace those people. The only last few people like that with the ability to adapt that way is possibly, for example, Maggie Smith. We don’t have any people of that sort of calibre anymore.
IW: I did. Ridley Scott started out life as an Art Director too & so on ‘Alien’ you couldn’t suggest anything or be allowed to have your own ideas. He was a brilliant director but, for example, if there was a pot of geraniums on the windowsill that you have placed he would come up to them and move the 2 inches to the left or the right. He was like that.
CP: You mentioned Kenneth Williams earlier, what was he like?
IW: He was always on show, always. Whenever you saw him he would just go straight into the routine. He didn’t really have any rapport with people on a personal level & you never heard of any relationships or love affairs.
CP: Did you keep in contact with Kenneth throughout his career?
IW: Yes, but not really latterly. The last time I saw him was outside Great Portland Street Station. We were separated by a traffic island & so couldn’t really chat, but he went straight into the comedy routine (laughs).
CP: They don’t make them like that anymore which is surely why they could never bring back the ‘Carry On’s’?
IW: Well who would do it? Who do we have now that could do that? Plus, that humour has long since gone but remains so popular due to the nostalgia & as period pieces. We just don’t produce actors like that anymore. No one is around to replace those people. The only last few people like that with the ability to adapt that way is possibly, for example, Maggie Smith. We don’t have any people of that sort of calibre anymore.
CP: I know you have been unwell in recent months, how are you now? Happily retired?
IW: I had an operation a few months ago & I came through that fine. My eyesight isn’t great now, I couldn’t tell a polka dot from a zebra stipe! But I am ok. I worked into my eighties so don’t think that is too bad! I am off to our holiday home in Gran Canaria for a few weeks in March so at least we will get better weather than in the UK!
IW: I had an operation a few months ago & I came through that fine. My eyesight isn’t great now, I couldn’t tell a polka dot from a zebra stipe! But I am ok. I worked into my eighties so don’t think that is too bad! I am off to our holiday home in Gran Canaria for a few weeks in March so at least we will get better weather than in the UK!
Marianne Maskell is an actress who was most active in the late 1970's. Her sister was also in 'the biz' as a model. Marianne starred as the 'Maternity Nurse' in the final true 'Carry On' - 'Carry On Emmannuelle' in 1978.
In actual fact Marianne's role is more notable than most people realise. This is because she speaks the final words in the final scene in the final 'true' 'Carry On' (discounting 'Carry On Columbus'). Her scene at the very end of the final is a group shot with a lot of the original team, including Kenneth Williams, Peter Butterworth, Kenneth Connor & Jack Douglas.
Although she admits that 'it wasn't the best film' she is nevertheless proud to have had a role in the series at all, particularly as they remain so popular decades later.
In actual fact Marianne's role is more notable than most people realise. This is because she speaks the final words in the final scene in the final 'true' 'Carry On' (discounting 'Carry On Columbus'). Her scene at the very end of the final is a group shot with a lot of the original team, including Kenneth Williams, Peter Butterworth, Kenneth Connor & Jack Douglas.
Although she admits that 'it wasn't the best film' she is nevertheless proud to have had a role in the series at all, particularly as they remain so popular decades later.
In March 2018 I caught up with Marianne to have a chat with her about her role in 'Carry On Emmannuelle':
CP: Did you realise at the time that you would have the last line in the last scene of the last 'Carry On'?
MM: Not at all! I really had no idea until years later when a couple of fans pointed it out to me. I thought 'Oh my God!'.
CP: Did you enjoy working on 'Emmannuelle'?
MM: I did, although I was very nervous! I think mostly I was in awe at working with these stars of the 'Carry On' films. I think my contribution only took one, maybe two, days. It was one of the worst wasn't it? But I am proud to have been part of it.
CP: Do you have any special memories of the film?
MM: Not really. All I can remember is being terrified of dropping those poor babies! I really was terrified. I wasn't that strong & thought 'God, please don't drop them!'. It was so hot as well under the studio lights. My agent put me up for the part but afterwards said that he thought he should have put me up for the Suzanne Danielle role.
CP: Wow, really?
MM: Yeah, although I wasn't as glamourous as Suzanne Danielle, but I think he thought that he could have put me up for the role. Who knows, he was quite money orientated so maybe that was it!
CP: Did you realise at the time that you would have the last line in the last scene of the last 'Carry On'?
MM: Not at all! I really had no idea until years later when a couple of fans pointed it out to me. I thought 'Oh my God!'.
CP: Did you enjoy working on 'Emmannuelle'?
MM: I did, although I was very nervous! I think mostly I was in awe at working with these stars of the 'Carry On' films. I think my contribution only took one, maybe two, days. It was one of the worst wasn't it? But I am proud to have been part of it.
CP: Do you have any special memories of the film?
MM: Not really. All I can remember is being terrified of dropping those poor babies! I really was terrified. I wasn't that strong & thought 'God, please don't drop them!'. It was so hot as well under the studio lights. My agent put me up for the part but afterwards said that he thought he should have put me up for the Suzanne Danielle role.
CP: Wow, really?
MM: Yeah, although I wasn't as glamourous as Suzanne Danielle, but I think he thought that he could have put me up for the role. Who knows, he was quite money orientated so maybe that was it!
Above: The poster for 'Carry On Emmannuelle' (1978).
CP: Were you not offered a role in any of the previous 'Carry On's'?
MM: No, of course I knew about the 'Carry On's' but I wasn't very well known. I had been a commercial actress.
CP: What are you up to these days?
MM: Well, I am not sure if I told you, but I had a nasty accident on a bike a while ago and damaged my hip. I have been in a lot of pain with it and have been under a consultant, so it hasn't been great the past few years.
CP: I'm sorry to hear that. There is always something that life throws at us isn't there?
MM: There is. Everything is a drama in my life!
My sincere thanks to Marianne for chatting to me for this section of the website.
MM: No, of course I knew about the 'Carry On's' but I wasn't very well known. I had been a commercial actress.
CP: What are you up to these days?
MM: Well, I am not sure if I told you, but I had a nasty accident on a bike a while ago and damaged my hip. I have been in a lot of pain with it and have been under a consultant, so it hasn't been great the past few years.
CP: I'm sorry to hear that. There is always something that life throws at us isn't there?
MM: There is. Everything is a drama in my life!
My sincere thanks to Marianne for chatting to me for this section of the website.
Larry Dann was born on the 15th May 1941 in London.
His acting career began by a fluke, with "a chance knock at the door looking for kids to work in films." He made his film debut age five in Adam and Evelyn (1946) with Jean Simmons and Stewart Granger, and worked as an extra before training at the Corona Stage Academy. As a youngster he had a cameo playing a schoolboy in 'Carry On Teacher' (1959), and appeared in two films with Sir Norman Wisdom, Trouble in Store (1953) and The Bulldog Breed (1960). He later rejoined the famous 'Carry On' series of films for 'Carry On Behind' (1975), 'Carry On England' (1976) and 'Carry On Emmannuelle' (1978). His other film roles included 'What a Crazy World' (1963), 'All Neat in Black Stockings' (1968), The 'Body Stealer's (1969), 'Before Winter Comes', (1969), 'Ghost Story' (1974) and The Bunker (1981). From 1984 to 1992, he played Sergeant Alec Peters in 227 episodes of the ITV police series 'The Bill'. He joined the Theatre Workshop in 1962 and appeared in numerous plays directed by Joan Littlewood including 'Oh what a Lovely War' in London, Paris and New York.
His acting career began by a fluke, with "a chance knock at the door looking for kids to work in films." He made his film debut age five in Adam and Evelyn (1946) with Jean Simmons and Stewart Granger, and worked as an extra before training at the Corona Stage Academy. As a youngster he had a cameo playing a schoolboy in 'Carry On Teacher' (1959), and appeared in two films with Sir Norman Wisdom, Trouble in Store (1953) and The Bulldog Breed (1960). He later rejoined the famous 'Carry On' series of films for 'Carry On Behind' (1975), 'Carry On England' (1976) and 'Carry On Emmannuelle' (1978). His other film roles included 'What a Crazy World' (1963), 'All Neat in Black Stockings' (1968), The 'Body Stealer's (1969), 'Before Winter Comes', (1969), 'Ghost Story' (1974) and The Bunker (1981). From 1984 to 1992, he played Sergeant Alec Peters in 227 episodes of the ITV police series 'The Bill'. He joined the Theatre Workshop in 1962 and appeared in numerous plays directed by Joan Littlewood including 'Oh what a Lovely War' in London, Paris and New York.
Larry has been a regular at 'Carry On' conventions over the years and is always happy to chat with fans about his involvement in the series.
In March 2018 I caught up with Larry as part of the 60th anniversary of the series:
CP: What are your memories of the 'Carry On' team?
LD: I had little to do with Charles Hawtrey and I didn't work with Sid in a 'Carry On'. As for Kenneth Williams, I had the privilege of him being in all four of the 'Carry On's' I played a part in. It appeared that he quite liked to talk with me as on the 'Emmanuelle' set we had many a chat about his love of history and life in general.
In March 2018 I caught up with Larry as part of the 60th anniversary of the series:
CP: What are your memories of the 'Carry On' team?
LD: I had little to do with Charles Hawtrey and I didn't work with Sid in a 'Carry On'. As for Kenneth Williams, I had the privilege of him being in all four of the 'Carry On's' I played a part in. It appeared that he quite liked to talk with me as on the 'Emmanuelle' set we had many a chat about his love of history and life in general.
CP: What was Kenneth like?
LD: As I am sure you know, he was nothing like the personality he portrayed for the cameras. I saw a lonely, bright, intelligent man with wicked sense of humour, and the voice was totally different.
CP: Do you have any specific memories of any of the ones you appeared in?
LD: On 'Behind' he (Kenneth Williams) told me more than once how he couldn't stand Elke Sommer as she had bad breath! Very difficult to keep a straight face when in her company, not that she talked to any of us. I was very fortunate to have worked with so many lovely comedy actors under the amazing Gerry Thomas. Kenny Connor was another who would always give you the time of day and personally the funniest of the lot to me.
CP: Can you believe that 2018 marks the 60th anniversary of 'Carry On'?
LD: I can't believe it's almost sixty years since I was in 'Teacher', banging that drum? It just goes to show that with good scripts, fantastic comedy actors and a Director who knew how to control them, that there is no end to the enjoyment that fans will get for decades to come.
LD: As I am sure you know, he was nothing like the personality he portrayed for the cameras. I saw a lonely, bright, intelligent man with wicked sense of humour, and the voice was totally different.
CP: Do you have any specific memories of any of the ones you appeared in?
LD: On 'Behind' he (Kenneth Williams) told me more than once how he couldn't stand Elke Sommer as she had bad breath! Very difficult to keep a straight face when in her company, not that she talked to any of us. I was very fortunate to have worked with so many lovely comedy actors under the amazing Gerry Thomas. Kenny Connor was another who would always give you the time of day and personally the funniest of the lot to me.
CP: Can you believe that 2018 marks the 60th anniversary of 'Carry On'?
LD: I can't believe it's almost sixty years since I was in 'Teacher', banging that drum? It just goes to show that with good scripts, fantastic comedy actors and a Director who knew how to control them, that there is no end to the enjoyment that fans will get for decades to come.
Top Right: Larry as 'Theodore Valentine' in 'Carry On Emmannuelle' (1978); Middle Left: Larry alongside Carol Hawkins, Sherrie Hewson & Brian Osborne in 'Carry On Behind' (1975); Bottom Right: A young Larry as a schoolboy in 'Carry On Teacher' (1959).
My thanks to Larry for his time and contribution for this section of the website.
Wanda Ventham was born 5 August 1935 in Brighton. She is an English actress, known primarily for her role as Colonel Virginia Lake in the 1970s science-fiction television series 'UFO' and for her recurring role as Cassandra Trotter's mother Pamela Parry in the sitcom 'Only Fools and Horses' from 1989–92. She also appeared in two episodes of 'The Saint' alongside Roger Moore.
In April 2014, People magazine featured her in its "Most Beautiful People in the World" edition.
Wanda appeared, albeit briefly, in two of the most popular of the 'Carry On' films; 'Carry On Cleo' (1964) & 'Carry On Up the Khyber' (1968). She is also mother of the successful British actor, Benedict Cumberbatch.
In September 2018 Wanda kindly shared her memories with me of her time on 'Carry On':
"I really am not much good to you on memories of the Carry On films. On 'Carry On Cleo' I had one day and had one scene and was home for lunch! On 'Carry On Up the Khyber', again, only one day's work - so I never really considered myself a 'Carry On Girl'
I did speak though on 'Khyber'. Sid James was very sweet - Kenneth Williams totally ignored me! It was very badly paid I remember that! I really didn't enjoy myself at all. I think I was a bit of a 'snob' about it, but in later life of course, I found it very funny! Sheila Hancock gives a masterclass of comedy timing as Kenneth Connor's cave dweller wife in Carry On Cleo, wonderful. Huge luck! Wanda X".
My sincere thanks to Wanda for taking the time to share her memories with me.
Above (top right); Wanda as the 'Pretty Bidder' trying to buy Jim Dale in 'Carry On Cleo'. Above (bottom left); Wanda as the Khasi's first wife in 'Carry On Up the Khyber'.
Above (top right); Wanda as the 'Pretty Bidder' trying to buy Jim Dale in 'Carry On Cleo'. Above (bottom left); Wanda as the Khasi's first wife in 'Carry On Up the Khyber'.
Malcolm Johns had various small film & TV roles in the 1960's and 1970's. His film credits include 'Casino Royale' (1967), 'Perfect Friday' (1970) & possibly more notably 'Carry On Emmannuelle' (1978). His television credits also include 'UFO' (1970) &'The Sweeney' (1975).
Who can forget his performance as the Sentry in 'Carry On Emmannuelle where, despite her best efforts, Suzanne Danielle fails to woo him only to be lose her love interest to a passing male dandy!
Of course 'Carry On Emmannuelle' is a film some fans would like to forget. It was the first of the series to go further than any of it's predecessors. The main theme and subject was, well, sex. It seemed to lose the magic of the series and gone were the double entendres and most of the core 'Carry On' team. By this point stars such as Barbara Windsor, Bernard Bresslaw, Charles Hawtrey and Hattie Jacques had departed the series and Sid James had died in 1976.
The series now had films such 'The Confessions' films to compete with and social attitudes and interests had started to change. The scene Malcolm was in is case in point. Despite a few subtle nods to homosexuality in previous films, such as 'Carry On Abroad', this scene has a overtly camp gay guy seducing a Sentry. Stereotypes were now at full throttle.
I don't actually mind the film, it is what it is and is after all it is the last true 'Carry On' with the original team. I think that it was just a poor choice of subject with all the other material and scripts Rogers and Thomas had at their disposal (such as 'Carry On Again Nurse') - see section 'The Lost Carry On's'.
In November 2019 I asked Malcolm about his time on the film and how he got involved...
"It's such a long time ago it is a job to remember things but it was done on a back drop at Pinewood Studios. The company were known as mean payers so 'extras' were not keen to work on 'Carry On' films if there were better paying jobs.
I got the job through my model agency as that was my main source of income for 10 years. However, I did the same as you and joined a casting agency, Central Casting, and was very successful for 35 years as a film extra, mainly doing dress calls due to the fact that one of the models that I worked with purchased Central Casting.
After many early mornings and late nights I am now retired. I have sent you a signed copy of one of the stills taken at the time.
I wish you all the best in your project and I enjoyed looking at your website".
Malcolm Johns - November 2019
My sincere thanks to Malcolm for taking the time to share his memories with me.
Above (top right); Malcolm as the 'Sentry' in 'Carry On Emmannuelle', Middle (left); Malcolm gets an eye full from 'Emmannuelle' (Suzanne Danielle), Bottom (right); A signed still from the film with Malcolm in full Sentry uniform.
Above (top right); Malcolm as the 'Sentry' in 'Carry On Emmannuelle', Middle (left); Malcolm gets an eye full from 'Emmannuelle' (Suzanne Danielle), Bottom (right); A signed still from the film with Malcolm in full Sentry uniform.
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