Hattie Jacques, English actress (d. 1980)

Hattie Jacques, born Josephine Edwina Jaques on 7 February 1922, was an indelible figure in English comedy, gracing the stage, radio, and silver screen with her unique presence. Renowned for her distinctive persona, she carved out a significant niche, particularly becoming a household name through her iconic roles in the beloved "Carry On" film series. In these highly popular comedies, Jacques consistently portrayed strict, no-nonsense characters, often figures of authority like formidable hospital matrons, which became a signature element of her comedic repertoire. Beyond the "Carry On" phenomenon, her prolific career spanned across various television and radio productions, showcasing her remarkable versatility and widespread appeal.

Early Career and Rise to Radio Stardom

Hattie Jacques began her professional journey in 1944, making her debut appearance at the Players' Theatre in London. However, it was through the burgeoning medium of radio that she truly soared to national prominence. She became a cherished voice on three highly popular BBC radio series, which were instrumental in shaping post-war British entertainment. These included "It's That Man Again," a hugely popular wartime comedy show where she performed alongside the legendary Tommy Handley; "Educating Archie," a major post-war hit that saw her working with the ventriloquist Peter Brough; and perhaps most notably, "Hancock's Half Hour" with Tony Hancock, a groundbreaking comedy that defined character-based humour for a generation. Her performances on these shows endeared her to millions of listeners, establishing her as a formidable comedic talent even before her major film roles.

Cinematic Presence and the Carry On Legacy

Following the Second World War, Jacques transitioned into cinema, making her debut in "Green for Danger" (1946), albeit in a brief, uncredited role. It was her association with the "Carry On" films, however, that cemented her place in British cinematic history. From 1958 to 1974, she appeared in 14 of these quintessential British comedies, playing a diverse range of roles that consistently leaned into her strong, authoritative typecasting. Her portrayal of the formidable hospital matron in films like "Carry On Nurse," "Carry On Doctor," "Carry On Camping," and "Carry On Again Doctor" became particularly iconic, often providing a grounding, albeit comedic, counterpoint to the series' characteristic slapstick and double entendres. These roles showcased her ability to be both imposing and endearing, a blend that was crucial to the "Carry On" formula.

Television Partnership with Eric Sykes

On television, Hattie Jacques forged a remarkably successful and enduring professional partnership with the comedian Eric Sykes. Their collaboration culminated in the long-running BBC comedy series "Sykes" (initially titled "Sykes and a..."). From 1972 to 1979, the show portrayed them as brother and sister living next door to each other, a concept that perfectly highlighted their natural on-screen chemistry. This role, which presented a softer, more domestically relatable side of her comedic persona, further endeared her to the British public. Hattie Jacques and Eric Sykes became staples of British television, their shared timing and warmth making "Sykes" one of the most beloved sitcoms of its era.

A Complex Private Life and Final Years

Behind her public persona, Hattie Jacques led a turbulent and often challenging private life. She was married to the esteemed actor John Le Mesurier from 1949 until their divorce in 1965. Their separation was notably caused by her five-year affair with another man, a younger individual named John Schofield. Despite the marital breakdown, their relationship remained unusually complex; Le Mesurier continued to live in their home for a period even after the divorce, residing in a separate part of the house, a testament to the unique bond they shared. Hattie Jacques, who had struggled with her weight since her teenage years, experienced a significant decline in her health soon after the separation from Le Mesurier. Her weight notably rose to nearly 20 stone (approximately 280 lb or 130 kg) in her later years, exacerbating her health issues. Tragically, she died of a heart attack on 6 October 1980, at the age of 58.

Enduring Legacy and Comedic Versatility

Hattie Jacques left behind a rich and enduring legacy in British comedy. Her biographer, Frances Gray, aptly described Jacques as possessing a "talent for larger-than-life comedy which never lost its grip on humanity." This insightful observation captures her unique ability to embody exaggerated characters while always retaining a relatable human core. Furthermore, Gray highlighted her capacity to display "a broader comic mode" as a direct result of her "extraordinary versatility." Beyond the strict authority figures, Jacques was capable of nuanced performances, showcasing a range that extended from broad physical comedy to subtle characterisations. Her contribution to British entertainment is remembered not just for her iconic roles, but for her profound impact on the landscape of comedy, inspiring future generations with her unique blend of power, pathos, and unparalleled humour.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hattie Jacques

What was Hattie Jacques best known for?

Hattie Jacques is primarily best known for her prominent roles in 14 of the "Carry On" films, where she typically portrayed strict, authoritative, and often formidable characters, most notably various hospital matrons. She was also a celebrated performer on British radio and television.

What were some of Hattie Jacques' notable radio shows?

Before her film career took off, Hattie Jacques achieved national prominence on popular BBC radio series such as "It's That Man Again" with Tommy Handley, "Educating Archie" alongside ventriloquist Peter Brough, and the highly influential "Hancock's Half Hour" with Tony Hancock.

Who did Hattie Jacques co-star with on television?

Hattie Jacques had a very successful and long-running professional partnership with comedian Eric Sykes, co-starring with him in the popular BBC comedy series "Sykes" (originally "Sykes and a..."). They played brother and sister in the show, which ran from 1972 to 1979.

What caused Hattie Jacques' death?

Hattie Jacques died of a heart attack on 6 October 1980, at the age of 58. She had experienced significant health issues, including substantial weight gain, following her separation from her husband John Le Mesurier.