Valerie Leon

Not just another tall, beautiful brunette, Valerie Leon had extensive experience in the British theatre and in television and films - and not just as a sexpot - before she became a fixture in the "Carry On" series, appearing in seven of them. In addition to comedy, she also excelled in horror pictures, playing a dual role in one of Hammer's best, Blood from the Mummy's Tomb (1971), and had the distinction of appearing with two different James Bonds, Roger Moore and Sean Connery.

She became a familiar face on British television during the 1970s for her regular appearances in the "Hai Karate" aftershave commercials.

Appeared in a live exhibition by Peter Greenaway when she had to sit along with Jacki Piper in a box. Members of the public came and just looked at the two actresses bizarrely sitting in boxes.

Wrote to "Carry On..." producer Peter Rogers and asked whether he would consider her again for a "Carry On..." movie, following her performance in Carry on Up the Jungle (1970).

Drove a car with the registration plate 'VL 1' from the early 1970s for many years until the car was sold for £15,000.

Personal Quotes [In reference to the "Carry On..." films and a break in her "Carry On..." appearances] "I remember writing Peter Rogers a letter and told him that I had broadened my experience and hope that he would consider me again. I got a letter back saying 'Dear Valerie so long as experience is the only thing that has broadened there is every chance of you working with us again'!"

[Speaking about the "Carry On..." films] "Most of the "Carry On..." regulars were seasoned performers, they were so individual it was wonderful. I think I was employed for the glamour which seemed to please people."

"After all these years they still bring so much pleasure to so many people, all over the world, even in America. I don't know how they cope with this type of humour."

"I think artists by nature are very insecure, they often do not show it."