Beginning her acting her acting life aged 12, starring in 1943 comedy drama Thursday's Child, Howes went on to enjoy a hugely successful career in film, television and stage, spanning six decades.
Sally Ann Howes was also married four times. She was married to Tony winning composer Richard Adler, before marrying literary agent Douglas Rae in 1972. They remained together until his death earlier this year.
It was her role in the 1958 film My Fair Lady, replacing Julie Andrews which gave Howes her first big break. In 1963, she earned a Tony Award for her performance in the production Brigadoon.
But, it was her role in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang from 1968 that she will be fondly remembered for, starring alongside Dick Van Dyke in the film as the daughter of wealthy businessman, Truly Scrumptious.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang airs on St Stephen's Day on RTÉ2 at 3-20pm.
