Ralph Thomas MC (born Ralph Philip Thomas 10 August 1915 — 17 March 2001) was an English film director, born in Hull. He is perhaps best known for directing the Doctor series of films.

His brother, Gerald Thomas, was also a film director, probably best remembered for the Carry On... film series and his son is the Academy Award-winning film producer, Jeremy Thomas.

He cast the actor James Robertson Justice in many of his films. He often worked with the producer Betty E. Box who was married to Carry On producer, Peter Rogers. He was a nephew of producer Victor Saville.

Biography

Born in Hull, Thomas entered the film business as a clapper boy at Shepperton Studios in 1932 whilst studying. He soon worked in film, sound, editing and camera departments.

During World War II, Thomas served with the 9th Lancers rising to the rank of Major and being awarded the Military Cross.

Returning to film with the Rank Organisation, Thomas advanced from assistant editor, to making film trailers to becoming head of Rank's trailer department as well as writing films. Sydney Box had enjoyed Thomas's trailer for Miranda and when a position of director came up due to an unexpected illness, Thomas made his directoral debut in Once Upon a Dream.