Carole Lesley
ActingAbout Carole Lesley
Maureen Rippingale (27 May 1935, in Chelmsford – 28 February 1974, in New Barnet), known professionally as Carole Lesley, was a British actress who had a short but significant career as a "blonde bombshell". Lesley ran away from home at the age of 16, "aiming to become a star". She starred in several films in the late 1950s and early 1960s, including the 1957 film Woman in a Dressing Gown, which won the 1958 Golden Globe Award for Best English-Language Foreign Film. She also appeared in Doctor in Love, Operation Bullshine and What a Whopper, and played Helen of Troy in a television play. However Associated decided to end her contract, which devastated her and she disappeared from the public eye. She subsequently lived in a semi-detached house overlooking New Barnet Railway Station, but by 1973 was felt by some to be "a deeply depressed, once beautiful woman, still haunted by a glamorous past". She died of a drug overdose.
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Carole Lesley reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 12 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Comedy
The majority of Carole Lesley's filmography leans towards the Comedy genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 17% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Carole Lesley remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in Trottie True, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Carole Lesley Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Carole Lesley's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Carole Lesley.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1962 | The Pot Carriers | Wendy | Average | Similar → |
| 1961 | What a Whopper | Charlotte 'Charlie' Pinner | Average | Similar → |
| 1961 | Three on a Spree | Susan | Average | Similar → |
| 1960 | Doctor in Love | Miss Kitten Strudwick | Flop | Similar → |
| 1959 | Operation Bullshine | Pvt. Marge White | Flop | Similar → |
| 1959 | No Trees in the Street | Lova | Average | Similar → |
| 1957 | Woman in a Dressing Gown | Hilda Harper | Average | Similar → |
| 1957 | These Dangerous Years | Dinah Brown | Average | Similar → |
| 1957 | The Good Companions | Film Star (as Leslie Carroll) | Flop | Similar → |
| 1954 | The Embezzler | Tea Shop Waitress | Hit | Similar → |
| 1949 | Trottie True | Clare as a child | Hit | Similar → |
| 1947 | The Silver Darlings | Una (child) | Average | Similar → |
Carole Lesley - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Carole Lesley?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Carole Lesley is "Trottie True" with a rating of 7.0/10.
How many movies has Carole Lesley acted in?
Carole Lesley has been featured in at least 12 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Carole Lesley?
Other notable films include "The Embezzler", "Woman in a Dressing Gown", and "The Pot Carriers".