![Comedian Groucho Marx](https://www.onthisday.com/images/people/groucho-marx.jpg?w=360)
Full Name: Julius Henry Marx
Profession: Comedian
Biography: Groucho Marx was an American comedian and actor. He is best known as a member of the Marx Brothers—alongside Harpo Marx, Chico Marx, Zeppo Marx, and Gummo Marx—who were a famous family comedy act in the early 20th century. Groucho was known for his quick wit and distinctive appearance, which included an exaggerated walk, bushy eyebrows, spectacles, and a large mustache.
Groucho started his career in vaudeville with his brothers Harpo, Chico, Zeppo, and Gummo. The Marx Brothers became Broadway stars with productions such as The Cocoanuts (1929) and Animal Crackers (1930). This success led to a series of films, including Duck Soup (1933) and A Night at the Opera (1935).
Groucho's persona was marked by his sarcastic, often impromptu humor, and his ability to craft witty one-liners and humorous insults became legendary. His unique style influenced many later comedians. His quick wit was not just limited to scripted performances as he also became known for his responses during interviews.
Beyond his work with his brothers, Groucho had a successful solo career, most notably as the host of the radio and television game show You Bet Your Life from 1947 to 1961. He was also an author, writing several books including his autobiography, Groucho and Me (1959), and Memoirs of a Mangy Lover (1963), as well as a friend of literary figures such as Carl Sandburg and T.S. Eliot.
Born: October 2, 1890
Birthplace: New York City, New York, USA
Generation: Lost Generation
Star Sign: Libra
Married Life
- 1945-07-21 Master of quick wit and widely considered one of the best comedians of the modern era Groucho Marx (54) weds Kay Marvis
- 1954-07-17 Master of quick wit and widely considered one of the best comedians of the modern era Groucho Marx (63) weds actress Eden Hartford (24); divorce in 1969
Historical Events
- 1932-11-28 Groucho Marx performs on radio for the first time
- 1943-03-27 Blue Ribbon Town (with Groucho Marx) 1st heard on CBS Radio
- 1947-10-27 "You Bet Your Life" with Groucho Marx premieres on ABC radio
Biographies and Sources
- Groucho Marx, Comedian, Dead; Movie Star and TV Host Was 86 - The New York Times