Famous British Entertainers

Eric Morecambe, an English comedian, is best known for his partnership with Ernie Wise as the iconic duo Morecambe and Wise. Their successful double act began in 1941 and lasted until Morecambe's passing in 1984. Morecambe's stage name was inspired by his hometown of Morecambe in Lancashire. He co-starred in the popular BBC1 television series The Morecambe & Wise Show, which achieved high viewership numbers, including over 28 million for the 1977 Christmas episode. Morecambe's comedic talent earned him a place as one of the most prominent figures in British popular culture.

Ernie Wise, known as one half of the iconic comedy duo Morecambe and Wise, had a successful professional career as an English comedian. He, along with his partner Eric Morecambe, became a national institution on British television, captivating audiences with their humor and wit. The duo's Christmas specials were particularly popular and cemented their status as comedy legends. Ernie Wise's comedic talent, timing, and chemistry with Eric Morecambe made them one of the most beloved and enduring comedy acts in British entertainment history.

Rod Hull was a British comedian and entertainer known for his work on television during the 1970s and 1980s. He was often accompanied by Emu, a puppet resembling an Australian bird, which became a popular and iconic part of his act. Hull's performances were characterized by his interactions with Emu, who was known for being mute and highly aggressive. Together, they captivated audiences with their comedic sketches and playful antics, making Hull a well-loved figure in the entertainment industry.

Shelagh Delaney was an English dramatist and screenwriter known for her groundbreaking debut work, "A Taste of Honey" (1958). This play is considered one of the most performed works by a post-war British woman playwright. Delaney made significant contributions to the field of theater with her insightful and thought-provoking storytelling. Her work has left a lasting impact on the theatrical landscape, showcasing her talent for creating engaging narratives that resonate with audiences across generations.

Richard Oliver Postgate was an English animator, puppeteer, and writer known for creating and writing some of Britain's most beloved children's television programs. Alongside collaborator Peter Firmin, he formed Smallfilms, producing iconic shows such as Bagpuss, Pingwings, Noggin the Nog, Ivor the Engine, Clangers, and Pogles' Wood. These programs, originally aired by the BBC from the 1950s to the 1980s, captured the hearts of audiences and stood the test of time, with Bagpuss being voted the most popular children's TV program in a 1999 BBC poll.

Victoria Chaplin is a renowned circus performer known for her innovative and creative contributions to the circus arts. She co-founded several successful contemporary circus troupes, including Le Cirque Bonjour and Le Cirque Imaginaire, later performing under the name Le Cirque Invisible. Chaplin is also recognized for her work in designing costumes for her children's performances, earning accolades such as the Molière Award for her artistic talents. Her dedication to the art of circus performance has left a lasting impact on the industry.

Don Arden was an English music manager, agent, and businessman known for managing the careers of prominent rock acts such as Jerry Lee Lewis, Little Richard, Gene Vincent, Air Supply, Small Faces, The Move, Black Sabbath, and Electric Light Orchestra. He gained notoriety for his aggressive and sometimes illegal business tactics, earning nicknames like "Mr Big" and the "Al Capone of Pop." Despite his initial success, his unethical practices and questionable accounting eventually caught up with him, leading to a decline in his reputation and estrangement from his own family.

The professional life of Apache Indians is characterized by their historical roles as fierce warriors and skillful strategists. Apache tribes, including the Chiricahua, Jicarilla, Lipan, Mescalero, Mimbreño, Salinero, Plains, and Western Apache, have traditionally defended their homelands in the Southwest and Northern Mexico against invading Spanish, Mexican, and American forces. Known for their expertise in combat and strategic tactics, the Apache have engaged in conflicts for centuries, showcasing their resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Today, Apache tribes maintain political autonomy and are headquartered in various regions across the Southwestern United States and Mexico.

Donald Swann was a British composer, musician, singer, and entertainer known for his collaboration with Michael Flanders as the duo Flanders and Swann. Together, they wrote and performed witty and humorous songs, earning recognition for their comedic talents. Swann's musical contributions were characterized by clever lyrics and catchy melodies, showcasing his skill as a composer. His work with Flanders left a lasting impact on the world of music and entertainment, solidifying his reputation as a creative and talented performer.

Evelyn Laye was a renowned English actress and singer who began her professional career at a young age in 1915. She quickly rose to fame in musical comedy, becoming London's highest-paid star by 1920. Laye made her American debut in 1929 and continued to star in both West End and Broadway productions throughout the 1930s. During World War II, she entertained naval personnel and later diversified her roles to include non-musical stage performances. Laye remained active in the industry well into her nineties, showcasing her talent in various long-running comedies and musicals.

Lord George Sanger was a prominent English showman and circus proprietor, known for successfully running shows and circuses throughout much of the nineteenth century alongside his brother John. He began his career working in travelling peep shows before transitioning to larger-scale entertainment ventures. Sanger's reputation as a skilled showman and businessman was widely recognized during his active years in the industry. He retired in 1905 after a long and successful career, but tragically met his end at the hands of a disgruntled employee in 1911.

Richard Tarlton was a prominent English actor during the Elizabethan era. Renowned as the most famous clown of his time, he was celebrated for his spontaneous comedic verse known as "Tarltons." His contributions helped transform Elizabethan theatre into a popular form of entertainment, setting the stage for the emergence of Shakespearean plays. Tarlton was a versatile artist, excelling in dance, music, and fencing. He also showcased his talents as a writer, producing numerous jigs, pamphlets, and a full-length play, leaving a lasting impact on the theatrical landscape of his time.

Bertram Wagstaff Mills was a British circus owner known for running the renowned Bertram Mills Circus. His circus gained fame in the UK for its spectacular Christmas shows at Olympia in West London, which were televised in 1938, 1946, and 1947. Mills' troupe made history as the last to perform with live animals on the stage of the iconic Drury Lane Theatre. His dedication to providing exceptional entertainment and his innovative circus productions solidified his legacy in the world of British entertainment.

Stuart Wagstaff AM was a versatile English-born Australian entertainer known for his presence across various entertainment platforms. He made significant contributions to theatre, television, film, music, and stage management throughout his career. Wagstaff's professional life was characterized by his adaptability and talent in engaging audiences across different genres. With a wide range of skills and experience, he left a lasting impact on the entertainment industry, showcasing his versatility and passion for performing throughout his illustrious career.

Terence "Terry" Hall was an English ventriloquist known for his innovative use of non-human puppets in his performances. He gained popularity for his character Lenny the Lion, who became a well-known TV personality with catchphrases like "Aw, don't embawass me!" Hall's career spanned from the 1950s to the 1980s, with appearances on various television shows and live performances in Blackpool. He also ventured into writing children's books and releasing music related to his puppetry work.