Tuesday 30 January 2018

Carry On Originals: Leigh Madison


This is part of a new series of blogs looking back at the stars of the original Carry On film, Carry On Sergeant. 2018 marks 60 years since Sergeant was made and released so what better time to turn the focus on all those brilliant actors who brought our favourite series of comedy films to life?

We're continuing with an actress who played small parts in two early Carry Ons, Leigh Madison.


Role in Carry On Sergeant: Sheila, the girl in the car seen with Terence Longdon at the beginning of the picture

Other Carry On roles: Leigh returned to play the glamorous Dr Winn in the follow up film, Carry On Nurse later in 1958.

Other notable film performances: Diana in Make Mine A Million; Jean in The Giant Behemoth and Cashier in Please Turn Over (all 1959)

Best remembered for: Continuing on a Carry On theme, Leigh had her biggest television role in the ITV comedy series, Our House, playing Marcia Hatton in 37 episodes between 1960 and 1962. The series was written by Norman Hudis and co-starred Joan Sims, Hattie Jacques and Charles Hawtrey.

Did you know?: From 1960 until her death, Leigh was married to the producer and director Ernest Maxin, best known for his work on television with the legendary Morecambe and Wise.

Leigh was born on the 11 March 1934, exactly the same day and year as fellow Carry On actress Dilys Laye.

What happened to her?: Sadly Leigh died in December 2009 at the age of 75, following a battle with ill health. 


You can follow me on Twitter @CarryOnJoan on Facebook and on Instagram

3 comments:

  1. I loved Leigh Madison in THE GIANT BEHEMOTH(1959).Beautiful actress and person.she died far too young.. May she RIP and be in Heaven with the Angels!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Indeed. Dilys Laye with whom she shares the same birthday and year..also passed away in 2009. May they both Rest In Peace.

      Delete
  2. I being a hugh 50's SCI FI fan have loved Ms Madison in THE GIANT BEHEMOTH as I watch it every year on her birthday and it is so sad she died far too young! RIP beautiful lady, your star shines brightly in Heaven with the Angels!!

    ReplyDelete