Harry Potter star Leslie Phillips has died aged 98.
The actor – best known for lending his voice to the sorting hat in the JK Rowling franchise – died on Monday (7 November).
Phillips had been struggling with illness and previously survived two strokes.
Fans will also recognise Phillips from his roles in the bawdy Carry On film series. He appeared in Carry On Nurse and Carry On Teacher in 1959 and Carry On Constable in 1960, after which he said he wouldn’t appear in any more films for the franchise.
However, he returned in 1992 for Carry On Columbus.
Appearing in the film series, he became known for his much-quoted catchphrases: “Ding dong!” and “He-llo.”
Phillips voiced the Sorting Hat in 2001’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, a role her reprised in its sequel in 2002 and the eighth film in 2011.
He also starred opposite Angelina Jolie in 2001’s Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.
Tributes have poured in following the news of his death.
“RIP Leslie Phillips,” author Martin Knight tweeted. “You didn’t quite Carry On until 100, but Ding Dong! You had a spiffing good try.”
Actor Stuart Antony commented: “The wonderful Leslie Phillips CBE has left us. Aged 98. A true gentleman, fantastic actor and the nicest man I’ve ever met. His stories were the best.. RIP Leslie Phillips.”
This is a breaking news story – more information to follow...
