A comedic genius who wrote and starred in numerous TV shows and films, including the iconic "Young Frankenstein" and "Silent Movie", leaving a lasting impact on British comedy.
Marty Feldman was a British actor, comedian, and comedy writer who left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. He is best known for his distinctive, misaligned eyes, which became a hallmark of his comedy sketches and films.
Feldman was born on July 8, 1934, in Canning Town, East London, to a Jewish immigrant family. His childhood was marked by solitude, especially during the Second World War, when he was evacuated to the countryside. Feldman suffered from thyroid disease, which led to Graves' ophthalmopathy, causing his eyes to protrude and become misaligned.
Feldman's entry into comedy was facilitated by his writing partner, Barry Took. Together, they worked on the ITV sitcom "Bootsie and Snudge" and the BBC Radio comedy program "Round the Horne." Their partnership led to Feldman's rise as a performer on "At Last the 1948 Show," where he co-wrote the iconic "Four Yorkshiremen" sketch, which Monty Python would later perform.
Feldman's breakthrough as a performer came with the comedy-variety sketch series "The Marty Feldman Comedy Machine" in 1971. He went on to appear in films like "The Bed Sitting Room" and "Every Home Should Have One," the latter of which became one of the most popular comedies at the British box office in 1970.
One of Feldman's most notable roles was as Igor in Mel Brooks' "Young Frankenstein" (1974), for which he received the first Saturn Award for Best Supporting Actor. His unique appearance and comedic genius made him a beloved figure in the world of comedy.
Feldman's life was marked by personal milestones, including his marriage to Lauretta Sullivan in 1959 and his struggles with thyroid disease. He underwent reconstructive eye surgery, which may have contributed to his distinctive appearance.
Marty Feldman's unique blend of humor, wit, and physical comedy has inspired generations of comedians and actors. His influence can be seen in the work of Monty Python, Mel Brooks, and other comedy legends. Feldman's legacy extends beyond his own performances, as he paved the way for comedians with unique physical characteristics to succeed in the entertainment industry.
"If I aspired to be Robert Redford, I'd have my eyes straightened and my nose fixed and end up like every other lousy actor, with two lines on Kojak. But this way, I'm unique."
Feldman's life was cut short when he died of a heart attack on December 2, 1982, while filming "Yellowbeard" in Mexico City. Despite his untimely passing, Marty Feldman's comedic genius and unforgettable eyes continue to entertain and inspire audiences to this day.
99 Years Old
A comedic genius behind iconic films like "The Producers" and "Blazing Saddles", known for his irreverent humor and parody style.
92 Years Old
A beloved comedic actor, director, and screenwriter who brought iconic characters to life in films like Willy Wonka and Young Frankenstein. He's synonymous with quirky humor and memorable performances.
Born in 1923
A comedian and actor who starred in several films and TV shows, including the iconic comedy "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World" and a memorable appearance on "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson".
83 Years Old
A comedic genius of the 1970s and 1980s, known for her iconic roles in Mel Brooks' films, such as Blazing Saddles and Young Frankenstein. Her unique blend of wit, charm, and impeccable comedic timing left an indelible mark on the world of comedy.
92 Years Old
A beloved comedic actor, singer, and director, known for his charismatic performances in films like "An American Tail" and "The Muppet Movie", as well as his culinary TV shows.
90 Years Old
Star of iconic films like "Smokey and the Bandit" and "Deliverance," this charismatic actor and director was a symbol of 1970s and 1980s American cinema, known for his rugged charm and versatility.
Born in 1926
A comedic genius behind the iconic parody film series "Airplane!" and "The Naked Gun," bringing laughter to millions with his deadpan humor and wit.
