Thirty-two years ago this week, an icon of American
entertainment died: a performer who was recognizable by his voice,
his physicality, and his frequent appearances on television and in films. We refer, of course, to Julius Henry Marx -- better known
as Groucho.
Groucho Marx died on August 19, 1977, but with all the fuss over Elvis
Presley's death three days earlier, his passing was virtually overlooked by
the media. For those with a taste for a sharp tongue
and terrible puns,
though, Groucho lives on.
In a career that spanned almost all of the 20th century, Groucho and his
brothers conquered vaudeville,
Broadway, radio,
the literary world, and motion pictures.
After he retired from movies (more or less), Groucho hosted You Bet Your Life,
a game show that became known for Groucho's verbal byplay with civilian guests
and its immortal catch phrase, "say the secret word and win $100."
He made a "comeback" at the age of 82 (though he'd never really
left), packing concert halls with his one-man show.
While some may prefer the karate-chopping guy in the jumpsuit, we'll take the cigar-smoking con man in the greasepaint mustache
waggling his eyebrows at the nearest blonde or trying to scam a wealthy dowager.
Suggested Sites...
- Marx-Brothers.org: Groucho Marx - detailed biography of the life of Julius Henry "Groucho" Marx.
- Marx Brothers.org - information on every aspect of the lives and careers of the five Marx Brothers.
- The Smoking Gun: Groucho Marx's FBI File - investigating just what kind of a Marxist Groucho was.
- Groucho Marx.com - official site, with biography, photos, archives, media, and more.
- Facebook: The Marx Brothers Council - now you can join a club that wouldn't have you as a member.
No comments:
Post a Comment