- Born
- Birth nameValerie Therese Leon
- Height1.80 m
- Not just another tall, beautiful brunette, Valerie Leon had extensive experience in British theatre, television and films, before she became a fixture in the "Carry On" series, appearing in seven of them. In addition to comedy, she also excelled in horror films, playing a dual role in one of Hammer's best, La Momie sanglante (1971), and had the distinction of appearing with two different James Bonds, Roger Moore and Sean Connery.- IMDb mini biography by: frankfob2@yahoo.com
- SpouseMichael Mills(January 16, 1974 - January 7, 1988) (his death, 2 children)
- ChildrenMerope Laura MillsLeon Mills
- Became a familiar face on British television during the 1970s for her regular appearances in the "Hai Karate" aftershave commercials.
- Wrote to "Carry On..." producer Peter Rogers and asked whether he would consider her again for a "Carry On..." movie, following her performance in Les cinglés partent en safari (1970).
- After six auditions she joined the chorus of Funny Girl starring Barbra Streisand in London's West End in 1966 which turned out to be her big break in getting an agent.
- She failed an audition for RADA and became an au pair in France.
- Prior to entering the entertainment profession she was a buyer for Harrods and wore glasses, the same ones she wore in the film Carry on Girls. While with Harrods she read an advert in the Stage paper for auditions for chorus girls. Applied and got 6 weeks work on tour before show folded.
- [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.
- I get more letters now that when I got in the 1970s. It is extraordinary.
- Carry on Girls (1973) - £1,000
- Les cinglés partent en safari (1979) - £600
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