Carry On Originals: Bob Monkhouse

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? 

I'm continuing today with one of the most legendary figures in post-war British comedy, with a career which spanned, comedy films, straight drama, theatre, television game shows, stand up and writing - you guessed it, the one and only Bob Monkhouse.

Role in Carry On Sergeant: Charlie Sage

Other Carry On roles: Sadly Bob did not return to the world of Carry On after making Sergeant.

Other notable film performances: Bob played David Cookson in two "Dentist" film comedies: Dentist in the Chair (1960) and Dentist on the Job (1961) - both capitalised on the popularity of the Carry Ons by casting the likes of Kenneth Connor, Eric Barker and Shirley Eaton. Other films included A Weekend with Lulu (1961) and She'll Have to Go (1962).

Best remembered for: Despite his great success as a writer, actor, stand up comedian and even singer, Bob is probably best remembered today as the host of many a popular gameshow on television. Hits included The Golden Shot, Family Fortunes, Celebrity Squares and Bob's Full House.

Did you know?: Throughout his career Monkhouse had jotted down jokes, one-liners, sketches and ideas into a series of leather bound books which accompanied him to every single professional appearance he made. In 1995 two of these volumes were stolen and a £15000 reward was offered by Monkhouse himself for their safe return. 18 months later they were returned to him.

What happened to him?: Bob died at the age of 75 in 2003. He had been suffering from prostate cancer.

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