Reg Varney: The Beloved Bus Driver of On the Buses
A Legendary Career in Comedy
Reg Varney, a name synonymous with laughter and entertainment, is best remembered for his iconic portrayal of Stan Butler, the lovable bus driver in the hit LWT sitcom
On the Buses (1969-1973). This role catapulted him to national fame, cementing his status as a household name in British comedy.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Born Reginald Alfred Varney on July 11, 1916, in Canning Town, Essex (now part of the London Borough of Newham), Reg grew up in a working-class family with his parents, Sidney Thomas Varney and Annie (née Needham). One of five siblings, Reg was educated at Star Lane Primary School in West Ham. After leaving school at 14, he worked as a messenger boy and a page boy at the Regent Palace Hotel.
A Musical Start
Reg's love for music began at a young age, with piano lessons that eventually led to paid performances at local venues, including Plumstead Radical Club in Woolwich. He later played in working men's clubs, pubs, and ABC cinemas with his friend George Shears, and even sang with big bands of the time. Reg's mother recognized his talent and encouraged him to pursue a career in show business.
War Years and Early Success
During World War II, Reg joined the Royal Engineers, but continued to entertain his comrades as an army entertainer, touring the Far East. After being demobilized in the late 1940s, he starred on stage in the comic revue
Gaytime, alongside
Benny Hill in a double act. This marked the beginning of his rise as an all-round entertainer, performing in various venues and eventually landing his first television role.
Rise to Fame with The Rag Trade
Before
On the Buses, Reg gained national recognition playing factory foreman Reg Turner in the BBC sitcom
The Rag Trade (1961-1963). This breakout role paved the way for his future success, leading to appearances in further sitcoms like
Beggar My Neighbour (1966-1968).
On the Buses and International Stardom
Reg's iconic portrayal of Stan Butler in
On the Buses made him a household name, with the show's popularity soaring to unprecedented heights. The sitcom's success led to three spin-off feature films, and Reg's stardom facilitated overseas cabaret tours, solidifying his status as a beloved entertainer.
Awards and Honors
Throughout his career, Reg Varney received numerous awards and nominations for his contributions to British comedy. He was awarded the
TV Times Award for Best Comedy Performance in 1971 for
On the Buses, and was nominated for a BAFTA TV Award for Best Actor in 1972.
Personal Life and Legacy
Reg married Lilian Emma Flavell in 1939, and the couple remained together until his passing on November 16, 2008. Reg Varney's legacy continues to inspire generations of comedians and actors, leaving behind a body of work that remains cherished by audiences worldwide.
- Reg Varney's iconic character, Stan Butler, was voted #2 in the TV Times poll for "Greatest TV Character of All Time" in 2005.
- Reg performed in over 1,000 cabaret shows throughout his career.
- He was a talented musician, playing the piano, trumpet, and accordion.
Reg Varney's remarkable journey, from humble beginnings to national treasure, is a testament to his dedication, passion, and natural talent. As we celebrate his life and legacy, we are reminded of the power of comedy to bring people together and create lasting memories.
FAQ
What were Reg Varneys most notable acting roles?
Reg Varney was an English actor and screenwriter, best known for his roles in television comedies such as On the Buses and The Rag Trade. He was a popular figure in British entertainment.
How did Reg Varney get his start in acting?
Born in 1916, Varney began his acting career in the 1930s, performing in music halls and later moving into television and film. He honed his craft, eventually becoming a household name.
What was Reg Varneys experience as a screenwriter like?
Varney wrote for several television shows, including On the Buses, which he also starred in. His writing skills helped shape the comedy genre in British television.
What were Reg Varneys most notable awards and nominations?
Throughout his career, Varney received several awards and nominations for his acting and writing, including a BAFTA TV Award and a British Comedy Award.
How is Reg Varney remembered in British entertainment?
Reg Varney is remembered as a beloved actor, screenwriter, and comedian who brought joy and laughter to audiences through his work in television and film.
