Veteran actor Leslie Phillips has died ‘peacefully in his sleep’ aged 98

Veteran British actor Leslie Phillips has died at the age of 98.

The London-born star of the screen and stage has enjoyed a long and varied career in entertainment that dates right back to 1938, and is most well-known to audiences nationwide for his roles in several Carry On films, as well as being the instantly-recognisable voice of the Sorting Hat in the Harry Potter film franchise.

The celebrated actor also has credits in several other TV series such as Heartbeat, Midsomer Murders, Monarch Of The Glen and Holby City.

Other films he has had roles in include Empire Of The Sun, Scandal, and Out Of Africa.

Thanks to his roles in the Carry On film series, Phillips became well-known for his suggestive catchphrases such as “Ding Dong”, “Well, hello”, and “I Say!”.

Aside from starring in Carry On films – including Carry On Teacher, Carry On Columbus, Carry On Constable, and Carry On Nurse – of the highlights in his illustrious, several decade-spanning career was when he appeared in Hanif Kureshi’s film Venus alongside the late Peter O’Toole.

He was nominated for a BAFTA for Best Supporting Actor for his critically-acclaimed performance.

Phillips was made an OBE in the 1998 Birthday Honours, and was promoted to CBE in the 2008 New Year Honours.

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But, his agent Jonathan Lloyd has today confirmed that the star has passed away, and died “peacefully in his sleep” on Monday.

Tributes have since been pouring in on social media.

Featured Image – Wikimedia Commons