On February 16, 2025, British actor Julian Holloway, known for his versatile acting performances in the “Carry On” film series and “Doctor Who,” passed away. He was 80 years old. Holloway’s death occurred at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital in Dorset, following a short illness.
Actress Sarah Douglas, a long-time collaborator of Holloway’s since the 1970s, mourned the loss of her close friend. She fondly remembered Holloway’s wit and the laughter-filled times they shared over the many years of their friendship.
During his 59-year-long career, Holloway appeared in eight “Carry On” films from 1967 to 1976, such as “Carry On Doctor,” “Carry On Up The Khyber,” and “Carry On Camping.” His television work included roles in “The Avengers,” “Whatever Happened To The Likely Lads?,” and the “Doctor Who” serial “Survival,” the last story of the show’s original 26-year run. He also made appearances in “The Professionals” and “Rumpole of the Bailey.”
Morris Bright, a fellow actor and broadcaster, expressed his sadness at the news of Holloway’s death, saluting him as “an accomplished actor who could play comedy as deftly as serious roles.”
Born on June 24, 1944, in Watlington, Oxfordshire, Holloway was educated at Ludgrove School, Harrow School, and the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA). His acting career started in 1961 with an episode of “The Avengers,” followed by his first significant role as Quentin in the 1962-63 television season of “Our Man Higgins.”
Holloway later pursued a successful career in voice acting, primarily in the US. He lent his voice to characters in 55 episodes of James Bond Jr., an animated American series based on the James Bond franchise. He also did voice work for “Captain Zed” and the “Zee Zone,” “Where’s Waldo?,” and “Star Wars: The Clone Wars” where he played Prime Minister Almec. Additionally, he provided the voice of Death in the Cartoon Network series “Regular Show” for six seasons.
Harry Potter actress Miriam Margolyes shared her sadness on Facebook, writing: “Oh I am very sad. Wonderful man. Wishing you and all his family long life. Too many going.”
Apart from his work in television and film, Holloway’s voice artistry was also utilized in video games, such as “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End” and “Medal of Honor: European Assault.” His dexterity as a voice actor made him a sought-after talent in the gaming industry.
Holloway had strong ties to both the British and American entertainment industries throughout his career. His early work in British television included roles in the police drama “The Sweeney” and several other popular series of the time. His shift to voice acting in the United States further demonstrated his adaptability and enduring relevance in the entertainment industry across several decades.
Holloway was the son of “My Fair Lady” actor and singer Stanley Holloway and Violet, his wife. He was also the father to supermodel-turned-author Sophie Dahl, who was born from Holloway’s relationship with Tessa Dahl, the daughter of author Roald Dahl and actress Patricia Neal. Sophie Dahl has authored several works, including “The Man with the Dancing Eyes” (2003) and “Playing With the Grown-ups” (2007).
Holloway was married twice during his lifetime: first to actress Zena Walker in 1971, and later to voice artist Debbie Wheeler in 1991. Both marriages ended in divorce.
