Tributes are paid to Chitty Chitty Bang Bang star Sally Ann Howes, who has died aged 91

Virgin Radio

22 Dec 2021, 11:49

Credit: Getty

Credit: Getty

Sally Ann Howes, who played Truly Scrumptious in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, has died at the age of 91.

As well as playing the iconic role in the 1968 musical film, the actress had a fantastic, six-decade career on stage, screen, and television. During that time, she earned a Tony Award nomination for best lead actress in a musical for her performance in Brigadoon in 1963.

She had previously replaced Julie Andrews as Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady on Broadway.

In 1967, the actress began filming Chitty Chitty Bang Bang where she played the aristocratic daughter of a confectionery magnate. She was paid £44,939 for her appearance, whereas her male co-star Dick Van Dyke was paid £615,425.

Whilst Chitty Chitty Bang Bang was a massive success, afterwards Howes went back to focusing mostly on theatre roles rather than films. Her performances included starring in The King and I, and Cinderella. 

Fans have been paying their respects to the actress on social media.

Actress/singer Emma Williams wrote: “Sad news today about Sally Ann Howes, the original and best Truly Scrumptious. She was the epitome of class, a generous and kindly soul who offered the sweetest words of advice and support to me when I met her. I will forever be grateful. #TrulyForever xxx”

Hollywood reporter writer Mike Barnes said: “#RIP Sally Ann Howes, so splendid in 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,' especially as the wound-up figurine in the ‘Doll on a Music Box’ number. With about 150 extras looking on, ‘They put me up on this box and off I went. And I got it in one take!’ she said.”

One fan wrote: “RIP Sally Ann Howes most known as Truly Scrumptious but also in one of the greatest British horrors ever, 1945's Dead of Night.”

Someone else wrote: “We’ve lost Sally Ann Howes. Wishing her the safest trip to Hushabye Mountain, thank you for the absolute magic that was by no means limited to childhood.”

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