British actor Leslie Phillips of the Carry On comedy-film series passed away at the age of 98. Phillips is also known for voicing the animated character of the Sorting Hat in the Harry Potter movies. His agent confirmed the news on Tuesday, November 8, and said that the actor died ‘peacefully at home’ on Monday. Some of his other memorable works include Doctor in the House and The Navy Lark.
The veteran actor made his first film appearance in the 1930s. He is remembered for his exaggerated comic portrayal of the English upper class after starring in Carry On Nurse, Carry On Teacher and Carry On Constable in 1959 and 1960.
During this time he became well-known for his suggestive catchphrases, including “Ding dong,” “Well, hello,” and “I say!” Leslie Phillips later moved into more dramatic roles, including a turn opposite Peter O’Toole in the 2005 film Venus which earned him a BAFTA nomination for best supporting actor.
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He suffered a stroke in 2014 while shopping in London but made a strong recovery. Moreover, Leslie Phillips was named Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2008 in recognition of his acting career. He also voiced the Sorting Hat in the Harry Potter franchise. The official Twitter page of Harry Potter Film expressed their grief on the microblogging site. Sharing a photo of the actor, they wrote, “We are incredibly sad to hear of the passing of the wonderful Leslie Phillips who voiced the Sorting Hat with such inimitable wit and style in the Harry Potter films.”
We are incredibly sad to hear of the passing of the wonderful Leslie Phillips who voiced the Sorting Hat with such inimitable wit and style in the Harry Potter films. pic.twitter.com/gcqsIT2T3j
— Harry Potter Film (@HarryPotterFilm) November 8, 2022
This year, the Harry Potter cast lost another member as well. Actor Robbie Coltrane, the actor who brought to life the lovable gamekeeper Hagrid in the Harry Potter film franchise, passed away in October this year. He was 72.
(With inputs from AP)
