Well, I would not know about today's featured person if it were not for Martin, my friend from England. He introduced me to the work of Rowan Atikinson (who was born on this date in 1955) a few years back through the shows of Black Adder. I will tell you right now that if you enjoy British humor that sometimes is slightly off-color, you would like his shows. In fact, some of you may find it hard to believe that those shows also featured a well-known actor in this country--Hugh Laurie of Dr. House fame.
Atkinson has had a long string of successes in the UK in both television and film. In addition to Black Adder, he has appeared on Top Gear where he actually set a record for the kind of car he drove (he loves fast cars). He has also portrayed Mr. Bean in a couple films, but he also was the voice of Zasu in Disney's Lion King (this was news to me!).
I guess I was actually alive when this occurred, but I was only 3 at the time. This is the date when Groucho Marx died in Los Angeles at the age of 86.
For those of you who do not know Groucho Marx or the Marx brothers, I feel you are missing out. I don't remember how young I was when I discovered them, but I was not much older than my daughter is now. Groucho Marx was never my favorite--even he "pushed the envelope." I have been shocked to go back and see some of his old films and see what the censors did not catch!
Brief biography: Julius Henry "Groucho" Marx was born October 2, 1890. He had 4 brothers, and together they made up a comedy team that graced vaudeville, Broadway, and films.
In addition to his very successful films, he had a very well-respected radio and television game show called "You Bet Your Life." His signature physical features were his mustache, eyebrows, and glasses. He is best remembered for being an absolute master of wit. He knew how to give out more insults in five minutes than most people could give in a lifetime.
If the below embedded video does not work, click here.
