Hattie Jacques was a renowned British actress celebrated for her comedic roles in film, radio, and television. Born Josephine Edwina Jaques on February 7, 1922, in Sandgate, Kent, she embarked on a diverse career that spanned several decades. Jacques gained national prominence through her appearances on BBC radio series such as ‘It’s That Man Again’ and ‘Educating Archie,’ and later became a staple in the Carry On film series. Her personal life, however, was marked by complexities, including a notable affair with John Schofield, which significantly impacted her marriage to actor John Le Mesurier.
Early Life and Career
Jacques was the youngest child of Robin and Mary Jaques. Her father was an officer in the British Army and later a flying officer in the Royal Air Force, while her mother served as a nurse in the Voluntary Aid Detachment. Jacques pursued a career in the arts, making her professional debut in 1944 at the Players’ Theatre in London. She quickly became a regular performer, appearing in music hall revues and playing the Fairy Queen in their Victorian-style pantomimes. Her biographer, Frances Gray, described the Players’ as Jacques’s drama school, where she acted, directed, wrote lyrics, and developed the persona she was to use in pantomime for years, embodying the large, bossy, but vulnerable fairy queen.
Rise to Fame
Jacques’s career gained momentum through her work on BBC radio. She became a regular on the popular series ‘It’s That Man Again’ (ITMA) alongside Tommy Handley, and later appeared on ‘Educating Archie’ with ventriloquist Peter Brough. Her success in radio paved the way for her film debut in ‘Green for Danger’ (1946), where she had a brief, uncredited role. Over the years, Jacques appeared in numerous films, including ‘Chance of a Lifetime’ (1950), where she portrayed a welder named Alice. Her performance was noted for its depth and humor, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
The Carry On Series
Jacques’s association with the Carry On film series began in 1958, and she appeared in 14 of these films over a 15-year period. She often played the role of a no-nonsense matron, a character that became one of her trademarks. Her portrayal in films such as ‘Carry On Nurse’ (1959) and ‘Carry On Camping’ (1969) endeared her to audiences and solidified her status as a beloved figure in British comedy. Despite the typecasting, Jacques’s performances were characterized by warmth and humanity, earning her the affection of fans and colleagues alike.
Personal Life and Marriage
In 1949, Jacques married actor John Le Mesurier, known for his role in the television series ‘Dad’s Army.’ The couple had two sons, Robin and Kim. However, their marriage faced challenges due to Jacques’s affair with John Schofield, a car dealer from Cockney. Schofield was a lodger in their home, and his relationship with Jacques led to the breakdown of her marriage to Le Mesurier. The affair was widely publicized, and the couple divorced in 1965 after 16 years of marriage. Jacques’s relationship with Schofield was a source of personal turmoil, and she was reportedly devastated by the end of their affair.
Later Years and Legacy
Following her divorce, Jacques’s personal life continued to attract media attention. She faced health issues, including a significant weight gain, and her career experienced fluctuations. Despite these challenges, she remained active in the entertainment industry, continuing to appear in television and radio roles. Jacques passed away on October 6, 1980, at the age of 58. Her death was attributed to a heart attack, and she was remembered as one of Britain’s most cherished comedic talents.
Impact on British Comedy
Jacques’s contributions to British comedy were significant. She was known for her ability to portray characters with depth and humor, often playing roles that defied traditional female stereotypes. Her work in the Carry On films and her collaborations with other comedians left an indelible mark on the genre. Jacques’s legacy continues to influence contemporary comedians, and she is remembered for her pioneering role in shaping British comedic sensibilities.
Hattie Jacques’s life and career were marked by both professional success and personal challenges. Her affair with John Schofield was a pivotal moment in her personal life, leading to the end of her marriage to John Le Mesurier. Despite the controversies surrounding her personal relationships, Jacques’s professional achievements and contributions to British comedy remain her enduring legacy. She is remembered as a talented actress who brought joy to audiences through her performances, and her influence continues to be felt in the world of comedy.