Carry On Christmas (or Carry On Stuffing) (1972)
Two unforeseen problems meant that many fans consider this the weakest Christmas special. Firstly, Talbot Rothwell became ill whilst writing the script, and was unable to finish it. Dave Freeman had to be brought in to complete the script, but the two men did not work together. As a result, the script does not flow as easily as the earlier offerings. Secondly, Charles Hawtrey pulled out of the special at short notice. Having taken third billing to Sid James and Terry Scott in the previous two shows, and knowing they would both be absent, Hawtrey demanded top billing. But Carry On producer Peter Rogers refused, giving top billing to Hattie Jacques instead. Hawtrey's role had hastily to be recast, and was split between Norman Rossington and Brian Oulton, both of whom had played cameo roles in several Carry On films. The special featured a collection of historical sketches, loosely linked around an 18th-century banquet.
Director: Ronald Fouracre
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Hattie Jacques as Maid / Miss Molly Cobbles / Fiona Clodhopper / Madrigal Singer / Miss Harriet |
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Joan Sims as Maid / Lady Rhoda Cockhorse / Fiona's Mother / Madrigal Singer / Miss Esmerelda / Mephistopheles' Wife |
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Barbara Windsor as Milk Maiden / Pudding Club Member / Eve / Virgina Clodhopper / Madrigal Singer / Maid / Aladdin |
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Peter Butterworth as Various Characters |
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Kenneth Connor as Various Characters |
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Norman Rossington as Tardy Diner / Thompson / Genie of the Lamp |
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Jack Douglas as Chimney Sweep / Mr. Firkin / Gong Basher / Adam / Madrigal Singer / Charles Burke / Mephistopheles |
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Brian Oulton as Oriental Orator |
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Valerie Leon as Serving Wench |
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Billy Cornelius as Waiter |
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Valerie Stanton as Mephistopheles' Vision |
| Writing | Talbot Rothwell | Writer |
| Writing | Dave Freeman | Writer |
| Production | Peter Rogers | Executive Producer |
| Production | Gerald Thomas | Producer |
| Art | Tony Borer | Production Design |
| Costume & Make-Up | Frank Van Raay | Costume Designer |
| Directing | Ronald Fouracre | Director |