Hattie Jacques

A character comedienne even in her very early twenties, diminutive British actress Hattie Jacques started out in 1944, appearing in stage revues and pantomimes. Long associated with the Players' Theatre, Jacques extended her activities to radio, starring in the popular comedy weeklies ITMA (1948-49) and Educating Archie (1950-54). In films from 1946, she was ideal for eccentric Dickensian roles in films like Nicholas Nickeby (1947), Oliver Twist (1948), A Christmas Carol (1951, as Mrs. Fezziwig) and The Pickwick Papers (1954). Her fans most fondly recall Jacques' sparkling contributions to the ribald "Carry On" film series, and her co-starring stints with such TV favorites as Tony Hancock and Eric Sykes. From 1949 to 1965, Hattie Jacques was married to actor John Le Messurier.

~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide