Harpo Marx

Description: (Comedian and Actor Well-Known for His Clown and Pantomime Traditions With a Curly Reddish Blond Hairstyle)

Harpo Marx, born as Adolph Marx, was a comedian and mime artist who was the second-oldest of the famous Marx Brothers. As a comedian of the silent era, he wore a funny costume consisting of a wig of unruly curly red hair and a top hat. He never spoke on stage, and used his body language and a honking horn to communicate with his audience. Legend has it that he lacked the sharp wits to effectively say funny things to make the audience laugh and therefore his brothers did not allow him to speak. But he was not someone to be disheartened—he evolved into such an emotive mime artist that soon his popularity surpassed that of his brothers’. He used to play a harp, albeit in a wrong way, and that is why he acquired his stage name ‘Harpo’. The Marx brothers had a difficult childhood ridden with poverty, but they were determined to overcome life’s challenges in order to make a name for themselves in the show biz. Their family comedy act, Marx Brothers was very successful and the group eventually made their way into Broadways and films where also they were able to replicate their success. More than just an entertainer, Marx was also a dedicated family man, completely devoted to his brothers, wife and children.

Overview

Birthday November 23, 1888 (Sagittarius)
Alternative names Adolph Marx, Adolph Marx
Died on September 28, 1964
Spouse/Ex- Susan Fleming
Parents Sam Marx (Frenchie)
Minnie Schoenberg Marx
Children Alexander Marx, Bill Marx, Jimmy Marx, Minnie Marx
Relatives Groucho Marx, Gummo Marx, Leonard Marx, Zeppo Marx

Did you know

What instrument did Harpo Marx play in the Marx Brothers? Harpo Marx was known for playing the harp in the Marx Brothers comedy act.
How did Harpo Marx communicate in films? Harpo Marx communicated through pantomime, whistles, horn honks, and other non-verbal sounds in his films.
What was the trademark physical gag associated with Harpo Marx? Harpo Marx's trademark physical gag was his ability to pull an endless array of items out of his coat pockets.
Which Marx Brothers film features Harpo Marx chasing a young woman through a hotel? The Marx Brothers film "Duck Soup" features a scene where Harpo Marx chases a young woman through a hotel, playing a game of tag.
Did Harpo Marx ever speak in his films? No, Harpo Marx never spoke in any of his films, maintaining his silent comedic persona throughout his career.
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