After completing his military service, he began to pursue a career in the entertainment industry by participating in camp shows while stationed in the army. Upon being demobilized, he secured a flat in London's West End and took on various morning jobs, including working as a porter at Covent Garden, a baker, and a railway employee. He would often take a nap during the afternoon before resuming his evening activities. Despite lacking formal training, he managed to secure small roles in cabaret clubs through his charisma and persuasive abilities.
His big break in the film industry came in 1950 when he was cast in the movie "Too Many Crooks" after being spotted by director Mario Zampi. However, it was his appearance in the 1959 revue "One to Another" alongside Beryl Reid that truly catapulted him to stardom.