Esma Cannon

Esma Cannon

Deceased · Born: Dec 27, 1905 · Died: Oct 18, 1972

Personal Details

BornDec 27, 1905 Randwick, New South Wales, Australia

Biography

Noted Australian-born character actress of the British screen, Miss Cannon stood out as one of the most exceptional scene-stealing actresses in the history of cinema. Her unique, pixie-like features and extraordinary facial expressions captivated audiences, earning her a special place in the hearts of many British film enthusiasts.

While her extensive filmography may have been largely overshadowed by her numerous appearances in the popular "Carry On" film series during the 1960s, it is undeniable that her iconic performances in these films have contributed significantly to her enduring legacy. In fact, it is likely that her career would have been largely forgotten today without her memorable roles in these beloved comedies.

Among her many notable performances, Miss Cannon's portrayal of the lonely but happy spinster in the 1962 film "Carry on Cruising" remains one of her most iconic and enduring. The legendary bar scene, in which she and Dilys Laye's characters become hideously drunk, has become an integral part of the movie's enduring popularity and is often cited as a highlight of the film.

Career

1998
What's a Carry On?
What's a Carry On? as Bridget Madderley (archive footage) (uncredited)
1977
That's Carry On!
That's Carry On! as Miss Cooling / Bridget Madderley (archive footage)
1964
Hide and Seek
Hide and Seek as Tea Lady
1963
Carry on Cabby
Carry on Cabby as Flo Sims
Nurse on Wheels
Nurse on Wheels as Mrs. Jones
We Joined the Navy
We Joined the Navy as Consul's Wife
1962
On the Beat
On the Beat as Mrs. Timms
In the Doghouse
In the Doghouse as Mrs. Raikes
Carry on Cruising
Carry on Cruising as Bridget Madderley
The Fast Lady
The Fast Lady as Lady on Zebra Crossing
1961
Carry on Regardless
Carry on Regardless as Miss Cooling
Roommates
Roommates as Mrs. Deevens
1960
Beware of Children
Beware of Children as District Nurse
Doctor in Love
Doctor in Love as Rafia Woman (uncredited)
Carry on Constable
Carry on Constable as Deaf Old Lady
1959
Expresso Bongo
Expresso Bongo as Nightclub Cleaner
1958
Further Up the Creek
Further Up the Creek as Maudie Lovelace
1956
Panic in the Parlor
Panic in the Parlor as Edie Hornett
Three Men in a Boat
Three Men in a Boat as Meek Woman (Maze)
A Touch of the Sun
A Touch of the Sun as Miss Tickle
1955
Out of the Clouds
Out of the Clouds as Rich Woman's Companion
Simon and Laura
Simon and Laura as Laura from Newcastle
1954
The Sleeping Tiger
The Sleeping Tiger as Scrubwoman with ladder
1953
Noose for a Lady
Noose for a Lady as Miss Ginch
The Steel Key
The Steel Key as Patient in Doctor's Waiting Room
The Long Rope
The Long Rope as Screaming Woman
Trouble in Store
Trouble in Store as Café Customer (uncredited)
1952
Crow Hollow
Crow Hollow as Aunt Judith Armour
1950
Last Holiday
Last Holiday as Miss Fox
Double Confession
Double Confession as Madam Cleo
1949
Helter Skelter
Helter Skelter as Autograph Huntress (uncredited)
Marry Me
Marry Me as Pleasant Little Woman (uncredited)
Vote for Huggett
Vote for Huggett as (uncredited)
1948
1947
Jassy
Jassy as Lindy Wicks
Holiday Camp
Holiday Camp as Elsie Dawson
1946
1944
Man of Evil
Man of Evil as Maid (uncredited)
The Way Ahead
The Way Ahead as Mrs. Ted Brewer
1942
The Young Mr. Pitt
The Young Mr. Pitt as Servant at Lord Auckland's
1941
Quiet Wedding
Quiet Wedding as (uncredited)
1940
Blackout
Blackout as Erik Skold's Niece
1939
U-Boat 29
U-Boat 29 as Maggie
1938
I See Ice!
I See Ice! as Bride
George Takes the Air
George Takes the Air as Sir Philip's Maid