Contents
Last updated on the 27 March 2024 by Evandrus
Mini Biography
Born: 8 May 1913, Johannesburg, South Africa.Â
Sid James, born Solomon Joel Cohen, was a beloved British actor known for his charismatic screen presence and comedic talent. With a career spanning several decades, he became an iconic figure in the world of comedy.
James began his acting journey in South Africa before moving to England in the late 1940s. He quickly found success on the stage and made his mark as a versatile performer. However, it was in film and television that he truly shone.
One of James’ most memorable roles came with his collaboration with the legendary Carry On film series. From “Carry On Sergeant” (1958) to “Carry On Camping” (1969), he brought laughter to audiences through his portrayal of cheeky characters with impeccable timing and infectious laughter.
Throughout his career, Sid James became synonymous with laughter and charm. His distinctive voice and mischievous smile endeared him to millions of fans worldwide. Whether playing lovable rogues or bumbling fools, he had an uncanny ability to bring joy into people’s lives.
Tragically, Sid James passed away while performing onstage during a tour in April 1976 at the age of 62. His sudden departure left a void within the entertainment industry that would never be fully filled. Nonetheless, his legacy lives on through countless memorable performances that continue to delight audiences today.
Sid James will always be remembered as one of Britain’s greatest comedy icons, a talent whose infectious humour transcended time and continues to bring smiles to faces even after all these years.
Suggested viewing
Carry on Up the Khyber (1968)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.8 In this uproarious comedy, set in colonial India, the British outpost of Khyber is under threat when a rebellious native sect challenges their authority. Led by the bumbling Sir Sidney Ruff-Diamond and his loyal sidekick Private Widdle, hilarity ensues as they navigate cultural misunderstandings and absurd situations while attempting to maintain control. With its sharp wit and comedic brilliance, “Carry On Up the Khyber” delivers non-stop laughs that satirize British imperialism with a touch of irreverence. Top cast: Sid James, Kenneth Williams, Charles Hawtrey, Roy Castle, Joan Sims, Bernard Bresslaw, Peter Butterworth, Terry Scott. |
Carry on Don’t Lose Your Head (1967)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.5 In this riotous historical comedy, set during the French Revolution, a bumbling band of English aristocrats and their loyal servants join the uprising disguised as peasants. With mistaken identities and uproarious situations aplenty, they must outwit the guillotine and avoid losing their heads. Full of slapstick humor and witty banter, “Carry on Don’t Lose Your Head” delivers non-stop laughter that pokes fun at both sides of the class divide in revolutionary France. Top cast: Sid James, Kenneth Williams, Jim Dale, Charles Hawtrey, Joan Sims, Peter Butterworth, Bernard Bresslaw, Dany Robin. |
The Big Job (1965)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.4 A gang of inept criminals, under the leadership of Sidney James, successfully pulls off a heist but are eventually caught and imprisoned. Upon their release, they embark on a mission to retrieve their stolen loot, only to discover that a police station now occupies the very spot where it was hidden. Top cast: Sid James, Sylvia Syms, Dick Emery, Joan Sims, Lance Percival, Jim Dale, Julia Foster, Deryck Guyler. |
Carry on Cleo (1964)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.7 Set during ancient Roman times, Cleopatra finds herself caught in a web of political intrigue and romantic entanglements. With mistaken identities, absurd antics, and witty dialogue, the film hilariously reimagines history while delivering non-stop laughs. Top cast: Sid James, Kenneth Williams, Charles Hawtrey, Amanda Barrie, Joan Sims, Jim Dale, Sheila Hancock, Jon Pertwee. |
Carry on Abroad (1972) |
Carry on Henry (1971)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.2 In this uproarious historical comedy, King Henry VIII finds himself entangled in a series of comical misadventures as he seeks to secure his legacy through marriages and court intrigue. Led by Sid James as the boisterous monarch, the film delivers a hilarious take on Tudor England with sharp wit, slapstick humour, and memorable performances from an ensemble cast. Top cast: Sid James, Kenneth Williams, Charles Hawtrey, Joan Sims, Terry Scott, Barbara Windsor, Kenneth Connor, Julian Holloway. |
Bless This House (1972)
Bftv 7.5 / IMDb 6.2 Sid James takes the lead as Sid Abbott, the head of a lively household in this film adaptation of the popular ITV sitcom. Alongside his best friend Trevor (played by Peter Butterworth), Sid ventures into home-brewing with hopes of turning it into a lucrative venture. However, their plans hit a snag when a Customs and Excise officer named Terry Scott becomes their new neighbour. As if that wasn’t enough, Sid’s eccentric and outspoken family members add to the chaos, making it even more difficult to maintain good relations with their neighbours. Top cast: Sid James, Diana Coupland, Terry Scott, June Whitfield, Peter Butterwort, Sally Geeson, Robin Ask with, Patsy Rowlands, Carol Hawkins.
|
Carry on Dick (1974)
Bftv 8.5 / IMDb 6.0 In this rollicking historical comedy, the notorious highwayman Dick Turpin finds himself entangled in a series of hilarious misadventures. With his trusty sidekick Sir Roger Daley by his side, Dick encounters mistaken identities, romantic entanglements, and absurd situations as he tries to outsmart the law. Led by Sid James as the charismatic outlaw, “Carry on Dick” delivers non-stop laughs through its clever wordplay and slapstick humor. Top cast: Sid James, Barbara Windsor, Kenneth Williams, Hattie Jacques, Bernard Bresslaw, Peter Butterworth, Joan Sims, Charles Hawtrey. |
Full filmography (@Wikipedia)
Sid James Gallery
