Tony Hancock - Tragic Life & Death of a Comedy Genius. 2.10.23 You remind me of that fella, you have a look of that chap who starred in the film Performance. One of the mobsters... I didn't particularly warm to TH. one of those I'll leave it til i get older......
Stumbled upon your site. Wonderful stuff - love the narratives & the resting places. The Rebel was an amazing film. I sense that old Hancock was still giving back w/ all the mishaps, trekking & humourous washing line….thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much! I'm so glad you enjoyed the video - I did rather think that about the washing line - it sort of seemed appropriate - thank you for watching! xxxx
Hancock was a genius, his timing was like no other. But for all his talent he had a self distruct button, a tragic figure. Thank you for this, a lovely moving tribute. RIP Tubbs.
You’re very welcome! My absolute pleasure - and I completely agree with you - a total genius but tormented and self sabotaging, so sad and such a loss.
I had heard of Hancock's half hour through my Mum and Dad. But it was untill the pandemic that I was looking for something to listen to and thought I would listen to Hancock's half hour. I'm so glad I did it's so funny even though there nearly 70 years old.i especially loved Kenny William's guest apparences.
I'm a retired cabby who was based out of Heathrow for twelve years. When times were quiet and slow we could be parked up in the taxi feeder park for anything up to four hours. So with the cab safety boxed in I often walked around the local area. Imagine my surprise when I found out my hero's ashes along with his mums were interred within walking distance! I believe that's because his brother lived in the area and took responsibility for Tony's remains. I took a customer to Bournemouth a while back and they wanted the very same hotel Hancocks parents owned and he lived in. Of course I took a break there before returning and took in the atmosphere and inspected the memorabilia. The man had more demons than Satans birthday party, he was an alcoholic with all the problems that brings but when he was on form he was unbeatable. I remember where I was when I heard the news of his suicide I was in the playground of my junior school! Thanks for the upload among the "younger" people he is becoming forgotten possibly because most of his material is in black and white. To quote the lad himself, "They are missing a treat here!"
Thank you so much for this!!! Firstly I wondered why his ashes were buried there - I knew it would be to do with us brother but I didn’t know Roger lived in the area. Also - I’d never heard the phrase ‘more demons than Satan’s birthday party’ but I love it! And haven’t stopped giggling since I read it! But it’s true he was a very tormented soul - he mad some very bad decisions for sure! I felt the cemetery was very atmospheric - a little unsettling to be honest!
@@BeautifulBadandBizarre There is a story about the return of his ashes from Australia. Willy Rushton who was over there and due to come home was asked to collect and sign for the urn from customs at the airport and see them safely home. He agreed but was terrified of the responsibility of bringing the great man home. On the plane he sat them in the next seat but the attendant said he couldn't leave them there even though he explained who's ashes they were. She gently persuaded him to hand them over. "I'll look after them" she said and took them away up front. Later Rushton was concerned about their whereabouts and poked his head through the curtain into first class and saw them on a seat with a seat belt holding the urn in place. The stewardess saw his astonished look and said "Mr Hancock flies first class"! That was from Willy himself.
Are you the cabby who refused to take me to Stockley Park, and pointed me to the bus station instead ? Actually, when he explained how long he had been queuing for a customer I completely understood.
@@ianjones2538 Na, Stockley Park is classed as a local job and you get an hour to do the run and get back straight into a terminal. They are good jobs. I never refused them. Some drivers may want to get away into town or somewhere for an appointment or most likely an afternoons golf session but I could do Stockley Park all day.
Hotel Celebrity in Bournemouth, the place where Tony Hancock lived, has a memorial to him on a first floor landing. In a glass cabinet - amongst other items, are two of his typewriters; one of which was found in the room where he died.
Again I am very impressed with your diligence. I have been a Hancock fan for many years and actually played the great man on stage in Hancock's Last Half Hour which was a real privilege. I always presumed he would be laid to rest in Australia so to find he has a resting place in the UK was a real revelation to me. Many thanks again for another perfect tribute.
I first came across Tony Hancock as a child when I found a record of The Blood Donor my parents had Fro. M then on until today I have adored Tony. His comedy was just first class I have listened and watch many of his works. They bring me such laughter and immense pleasure Thank You Craig
My pleasure Craig! Thank you so much for your lovely comment and for watching the video! The Blood Donor is a true comedy classic! Tony was a true talents - it’s so sad how things went - but he has left behind such a fabulous amount of excellent entertainment that never seems to grow old! ❤️
That was a lovely tribute to a man who was born just up the road to where I live, I remember Hancocks Half Hour quite well, all our family would gather around the old crackling radio and have a good laugh at this very funny man! once again thank you!
I remember my Nan and Uncle returning from a theatre visit in London many years ago chuffed that they'd met Sid James and acquired his autograph. My Nan said that he was a kind man that always had a smile for his fans.
Me and my parents went to see Tony H at the Palandeum in August 1963. I was only 10 but laughted so much Tony H looked at me and said, "at least I've got one fan". The problem was the audience weren't laughing. Tony H stood in at the last minute after the star didnt appear. The audience weren't geared up to watch him. Happy memories for me.
As a small child I enjoyed Hancock's Half Hour. Tony Hancock along with the Goons were my favourite brand of British humour and then came along the Carry On gang, many of which had guest starred with Tony Hancock. I was very confused about Hancock's death as I was a teenager at high school and dismayed at losing one of my comedic idols. Later I met Sid James in 1974 when he did a rare live TV interview in Australia. 😂 Thanks for your tribute to Tony Hancock.
You met Sid James? Oh my goodness that would have been a dream come true for me! I loved them all! Tony Hancock was such a talent - a sad end to such greatness 😢 Thank you so much for watching xxxx
he was a very funny man with a knack for talking to the camera, He had problems like all of us but his problems took over his life, May you rest in peace, and I bet the Almighty God is having a big chuckle.
Great summary of his life. His radio show still holds up decades later. He really had every possible opportunity to do great things, but the alcoholism and inner demons got the better of him. His end was so tragic.
He did get the opportunity to feature in a Hollywood movie "The Adventures Of Bullwhip Griffin" but the drink got in the way and they "let him go". That was his big chance to be as he called it "international".
His insecurity also led to him discarding Kenneth Williams whom he thought was getting more laughs and his character was taking over from his. He was sadly unable to share the limelight, and never realised that he was talented big enough to do so. Still funny to listen to now nearly 70 years on, which is truly amazing.
Yes he was terribly insecure - which is such a shame because he had so much talent - but the entertainment industry then as now required a tougher skin than Tony had xx thank you for watching!
Lovely tribute. I have about 70 episodes of his radio show on mp3 and still listen to them in the car on my way to work. Great writing, great cast and a comedy legend still sadly missed.
Thank you so much - I think the writing seems to me so much stronger then - I have wondered if it was because they had no visuals to rely on and when it transferred to TV there were no fancy sets or special effects and of course the writers had more creative freedom with language and ideas than they seem to have today too ❤️
Thank you! I was pondering on this - I think they hit such a high it was impossible to maintain at the peak - and the more they tried the harder it all became - crushing for the ego!
I think sad people try to hide their sadness from other people with humour. That applies to class clowns and office jokers as well as professional comedians.
My mother actually met him. When he was in Australia 1968. She worked for a bakery and delivered bread to houses around Sydney. One of the areas was Bellevue Hill. He approached her asking for half a loaf. He took out some change but she gave it to him for free. She didn’t know who he was. Until after he died and it was on the news that’s when she recognised him. She often told us he looked miserable and his eyes looked sad. Which is why she gave him the bread. He said thank you miss. As he walked away. True story
Thank you so much for sharing this! It must have been quite a shock for your mother when she realised who it was - and what a lovely thing she did ❤️ such a sad situation xx
Humans are terrible at parenting! Early childhood for millions is a disaster; Tony’s demons stemmed from that time. When will we learn? Thank you for the excellent videos, and RIP one of the greatest comedians - Tony Hancock.
I think parenting skills and how important parenting is should be taught in schools - although even if you have a good understanding of what a child needs - it’s still the hardest job in the world and yet one that isn’t valued as much as it should be xx Thank you so much for your comment and for watching the video! ❤️❤️❤️
That’s marvellous! I love vinyl records I collect them too - don’t have Tony Hancock’s work though - that’s a special LP to own! June is a lovely month for birthdays!
My wife and I LOVED TONY HANCOCK. I was gutted to learn that This Genius took his own life in Sydney. Our family emigrated to Melbourne in 1961, and were utterly shattered to learn of Tony's demise. He was such a character. When I returned to the UK in 1998 and again in 2001, I was determined to find the famous RAILWAY CUTTINGS address, but then realised it was indeed a fictitious address. I remember walking all over London looking for the full series of Tony's radio shows HANCOCK'S HALF HOUR. My wife and I played those tapes every time we went away on long trips and for the 1200 km drive from Melbourne to Brisbane via Sydney we were both paralytic with laughter and I am surprised we even complete our journey safely. One of my favourite episodes was the time when Tony decided to write poetry and had joined a "Poetic" society, and composed a poem about "RINKY TINKY ON PURPLE GRASS" Our Australian Actor who also featured in TAKE IT FROM HERE with Jimmy Edwards and June Whitfield was also in that episode and as usual; Syd James' poem had to do with Horse Racing. What a tragic loss! RIP HANCOCK. Thank you for the tons of laughs you and your crew gave us.
Oh!!!! I lived in Melbourne too - Avondale Heights - for a couple of years during my childhood x yes Tony was a phenomenal talent! I still cry-laugh at ‘Sunday Afternoon’ and he was superb when teamed up with Hattie Jacques and Sid James ❤️ Thank you so much for watching the video 🌹
@@BeautifulBadandBizarre Thank you kindly for a prompt response, Avondale Heights eh, I was on the other side of the Yarra. We lived in South Caulfield until; we bought our current house in West Gippsland, which we affectionately term "THE LATRINE VALLEY" instead of The Latrobe Valley as it rains here much like it used to in Scotland. Thank you so much for bringing this programme to us. So sad that he was so self destructive but then again; I suppose being a comic genius, it must have been hard for him to fight those demons. Once again many thanks and kind Rregards
Always a pleasure - although I often slip behind on messages I always try my best to catch up as I love talking about my favourite subjects 🤭 Yes - we were in Sydney for a time and then moved to Melbourne! I agree about Tony being self destructive and he was such a great loss to the future of comedy so - what he could have achieved!!!!
I never met the great genius personally, about 4 decades ago while in my mid 20's I had called into a Marylebone pub where I met; I think he was a solicitor who told me the 2 'Hancock' writers got in this pub several times a week, ray Galton and Alan Simson darn just to say I never got to meet them neither, but I still soaked up the atmosphere , and talked 'Hancock' for several hours with this hardened 'Hancock' fan. I remember the solicitor offering to extend our stay in London with his home that's not the magic of me, that's the magic effect of 'the time but mainly the boy's Hancock', Galton and Simson. Oh like what your doing with you video's paying respect too those who entertained us in our youth a golden time, when you plug in your radio and not your tooth brush, when it was a lucky man-woman who got of this world alive, yeah there pretty old one's long past there shelf life, when the cooper's are looking younger and younger then you know the best years are behind me, hold on to your trousers, as one get's rattled out reverberating down each trouser leg. Thank you for paying respects to a great comic genius he doubted his own ability, Hancock just had to raise his eyebrows and I would be in stitches, if he lost his comic timing, I still would admire him, Hancock didn't lose, it was the world who lost out overall. Dadio dictates and I write for him, these are his words but.
This is so lovely!!!!!Thank you so much for this comment and for watching the video and thank you to your Dad too! much appreciated indeed - I'm such a huge fan of Galton and Simpson as well - what a team they were! Can I also say I am absolutely smiling at the phrase 'when you plug in your radio and not your tooth brush' I love that!!! Yes!!! Those were the days indeed! Thank you and your dad again, for such a great comment - it's very much appreciated! xx
My wife and I were married in this church (St Dunstans) back in 73, we used to visit Cranford Park quite often but have never seen anything strange in the churchyard! It was nice to see the church again in your video.
That’s so lovely! It’s such a pretty church - I didn’t get to go inside but I can imagine it’s very special - you really do get the sense of the past there - amazing to think it’s been there since medieval times - so rich in history! ❤️
I was brought up on a digest of black and white comedy, film, and TV. Eventually getting colour in the late 60's! I just love all the old films and tv shows and all the characters they produced. They really were good old days. I find your films so very interesting and respectfully presented. I can tell you are a big fan as well. You are such a lovely Lady, Thank you.
Thank you so much! And thank you for watching - I appreciate that very much’ and YES! I was brought up the same! 🤣 I am a very big fan - I’m also very much into the lesser known starts too - the ones that were constantly working but weren’t as well known - I find it all so interesting! ❤️
I moved to Australia with my family shortly after it happened - Sydney first and then Melbourne! It was a very sad time to hear he had died x thank you so much for watching x
i've fallen asleep to Hancock's half hour since my parents will have suggested i listen, sometime back in the early eighties? forty years when i was a teenager and discovering flanders and swann and the goons as well lol.. but without Kenneth and definitely without sid and bill i still, even now, don't see the attraction.. i can't get over his not wanting them thankyou for sharing this and the others that you do 🙂 x
What a great summary. Born exactly a century ago. Back in the day many people would carefully tape Hancock Halfhour on their reel to reel tape recorders to listen again just like with video recorders.
Thank you so much for your lovely comment! I’m glad you enjoyed the video. It’s amazing to think about how dedicated fans were back then, carefully taping Hancock’s Half Hour on reel-to-reel recorders to enjoy again later (I had one!!) It really shows how much his work meant to people and how timeless his humour remains. xxxx
Well done, nicely narrated. I worked in the homeless sector ... we had a fellow who would bed down for the night under a moveable slab and a hollow recess in the middle of a graveyard. He preferred that to living in a hostel. But would call in for hot meals from time to time. When I was a police officer I would sit with my sandwhiches and watch out for the grey lady , who was often seen by security guards at car park . I never saw her. Or anyone else funnily enough. Nice quiet spot for me midnight lunch. I posess a picture pre digital....I took a foto of a kings head on a doorway to a church. When I got the foto back there was just one eye looking back where there should have been an empty hole. Most peculiar . When digital came in I took a foto of the photo...in an attempt to blow it up .....which I did....and the eye looks even more real....oooerrr mrs. But Ive had a lifetime of seeing the odd ofd unexplainable thing .....exoerience. The only one that gave me the heebie gerbies .....were shadow people. I watched them as I walked home 17 yrs old. For about 3 or 4 mins ( police cadet ). 12 .25 am. . It was totally unexpected and I had no idea what the hell they were . I rang the station....but they found no signs of anything. I have seen weirder but they upset my equlibrium. Thus would love to see again to check it out. Now I am a old man lol.
Oooh!!! Thank you for your interesting stories! I think there are certainly many things that can’t be explained! I keep meaning to go back to that particular cemetery to see if it has the same feel as it did that particular day I went there - I’ve since learned that Tony is in the strange/odd area almost outside of the churchyard due to the manner of his death - I think that’s so sad x
@@BeautifulBadandBizarre Indeed it is silly. Most graveyards have two realities. One a yew.....as yews where the key significant tree in old worship ....pre Christian...Thus the sign that it has been holy before Christianity, and two the west side should hold the graveyard. All churches face the same directions ...east for birth hence christening side and west for death as with the movement of the sun. So no matter where you were dropped in Europe you could tell nsew..by the church. Handy in a war in a parachute descending into fog.....otherwise not so handy to know lol. . I'm the only person I know that gets Deva jue in visual and dialogue lasting minutes. Anything caught in a moment is imagination....those things that linger not so. I like this little Poem. I saw a man who wasn't there ( done it myself) he wasn't there again today I wish that man would go away.
Love his radio series,and got the Hancock half half hour cd box set plus the dvd, but this what I just watching is very sad,rip tony Hancock, thanks for this video
Thank you for your comment! It’s great to hear you’re a fan of Tony Hancock and his radio series. He truly left a lasting legacy, and it’s poignant to reflect on his life and career. I appreciate you watching the video! Thank you so much xxxx
I love your explorations,lots of useful and honest info, Back in the day Handcock,and Handcocks Half Hour, an absolute MUST, Truly a troubled Genius,,,,,,, Thank You,,,
Beautifully written and a warm delivery. Your visits to graves is touching and also revealing. I appreciate your work. I was brought up on Hancock and he has always been a favourite. I remember even Hancock single-45 records! I played them to death as a child (Dad used to smile at my fascination). Your narrative is so interesting: the good, the sad and the tragedy of Hancock.
Thank you so much for your kind words and for sharing your personal memories of Tony Hancock. Hancock's unique brand of humor and his memorable performances have left a lasting legacy, and it's wonderful to know that his records brought you so much joy as a child. I'm glad you found the narrative interesting. Tony Hancock's life had its highs and lows, and it's important to remember both the joy he brought to many and the challenges he faced. Your appreciation of the video means a lot, and I'm grateful for both your lovely comment and that you watch the video xxxx
The strangest thing I found in a cemetery was a clean thigh bone when I was seven and visiting the grave of my nan with my mum. I was proud as punch, thinking it was from a deer or something, but my mum was mortified and told me to put it back. I was an innocent child and quite introvert, so never forgot the story. Thank you so much for your videos, they are really interesting and I enjoy your voice.
😮 that certainly beats anything I’ve ever found in a cemetery! Oh my goodness I can just imagine your mum’s face 🤭 Thank you so much! I’m so pleased you’ve enjoyed the videos and thank you so much for watching! ❤️
Tony Hancock had everything and nothing. There must have been other areas of entertainment where he could have excelled. Writing, directing etc. Rest In Peace 💐
Even now his programs are funny and to think he’s now in an almost forgotten spot in a windswept and bleak looking churchyard but I’m sure he’s laughing at the line of knickers left behind, the mind boggles, maybe someone misunderstood the word bloomers to mean something other than flowers on that occasion. Well done on reaching a thousand. X.
I still listen to his shows on Spotify! Especially in the car on long journeys! The church yard itself is amazing but weirdly it’s isolated and yet not at the same time! There is a busy road that runs along side of it with non stop heavy traffic. I thought that with the washing line 🤭 Thank you! I’m well happy to have hit 1k and still can’t believe it! Thank you for your support!
What a lovely lady you are! You give all of your featured heavenly stars a huge respect and i think the beautiful flowers cap off your sweet natured videos a treat! Thank you! Incidentally, i wonder if one day, you would visit Nancy Spungen @ Sid Vicious's final resting place please, as i am a big fan of theirs. Thank you once again! xxxxx
Thank you so much! I truly appreciate your comment 🌹 ohhhh! Sid and Nancy - now you’re talking my teenage years! I remember those days well - I believe Nancy is buried in the US and Sid’s mother wanted her son buried with Nancy but Nancy’s family objected so rumour has it that his ashes sprinkled on Nancy grave - I don’t know for sure but I did hear that ❤️
As a teenager It was the highlight of each Sunday afternoon to listen to Hancock's Half Hour. I once saw a documentary about him and was very pleased to note that the producer's favourite episode was also mine - A Sunday Afternoon. The jokes were so good but also contemporary - like the title of the movie in the paper - I Was A Teenage Vampire and Drank The Blood on My Washboard a reference to U.S. horror movies and Skiffle music. The washing line was far out.
Oh I love ‘A Sunday Afternoon - Stone me, what a day’ 🤣 I still listen to it every now and again on Spotify 🤭 It never gets old and I can certainly relate!
I loved all the episodes with Hattie. (“At least their gravy used to move about a bit” 😂) I didn’t think any of his other female supporting actors were at all funny. Yes, I remember screaming with laughter as a child listening that Sunday Afternoon episode. Sundays really were as boring as that in those days.
Hi. When I'm painting I enjoy listening to biogs and seeing as I love classic British humour and film, your channel serves as a perfect companion to me. Thanks so much for well produced uploads. Jeff.xxxx
Great comedian. I love a movie "Rebel", where he played unaccomplished art painter and accompanied by another British great, George Sanders. Why did I mention them? Because shortly after both actors committed suicide. Did you know about that? Sidney James and John Le Mesurier (mentioned in video) were great actors too. Unfortunately, American TV shows no signs to bring the British and the whole European film culture here to the US.
Yes I know them all very well… figuratively speaking 🤭 they are all major favourites of mine! One of my favourite movie scenes is in All About Eve when George enters the party with Marilyn Monroe! Wonderful film - but apparently his wife Zsa Zsa Gabor wouldn’t allow George to eat in the canteen with Marilyn while on set 🤭
Have always enjoyed Hancock a genius and a very complicated man. I think he only wanted to get the laughs and so destroyed the many friends around him. RIP Anthony you have brought me such joy
Hello Shar, As the only gardener in my family it's left to me to look after the family graves. I look after my maternal grandmother's grave, as I was very close to her, once I was tending the grave, which is in a fairly open location, I was suddenly hit by a very strong smell of perfume which seemed to come from nowhere, it lasted a short while before leaving. The perfume we always associate with my grandmother, but we can't remember the name of it. Best Wishes from Wales.
Hi Paul! Thank you so much that’s a lovely story! I’ve had a similar experience too! I’d love to know the name of the perfume your grandmother wore - perfume is another passion of mine 🤭 not so much wearing it but I’m interested in the vintage perfumes my favourite actresses wore! Xx
@@BeautifulBadandBizarre My mother also had a similar experience, sat in a pub having a drink, the same thing, a strong smell perfume suddenly descended and then went away. I enjoy your video's, it's always interesting to learn about people who were famous and such familiar names and faces to us all. 👍
Thanks for this video - I was born in 1952 & grew up enjoying Tony Hancock’s humour and of course many of his contemporaries. If anyone is anything like me it would be John `Le John the mesurier - very poorly gytrated by some of his closest friends (including both Hattie & Joan). Like you, I am fond of visiting churches & other Iconic, if strange English historical sites. And believe it or not , I am a member of the burial board which serves two local parishes. ISO, I know where I am going to eventually lie! Hopefully a quite a few years in the future.R.D.
You’re very welcome! Thank you for watching! Oh yes I agree totally about John! And also about visiting interesting places! I just truly love history - and discovering more about the lives of people from the past - both famous and not famous! I’ve discovered so amazingly interesting ‘ordinary’ lives on my research journeys! My friend has also secured her place for the future 🤭 ❤️
Interesting find of the camp site ! What a brilliant and also destructive mind Tony had towards the end tragic. Love your trips to these wonderful cemeteries and graveyards. You captured it all so well 💕 Well done 👏 👏
Thank you so much! Yes it’s often the way - brilliant and destructive x Well it was rather odd with the washing line 🤭 and I couldn’t help laughing as it felt a bit like a comedy sketch! 🤣
I was born in 1966 so only have become more aware of his work in my 50’s. Especially as you say working with great partnerships such as Sid James, Kenneth Williams and Hattie Jakes. Like us all I guess he had his demons alcohol being the biggest one. I truly hope the Man is now resting in heavenly peace with his lovely mum. As far as graveyard experiences it was not my experience but my late father and mothers they were driving home from a party. My my dad had told me a story of driving Home on the country road and opposite on this country Road, was a churchyard seeing a very strange person in top Hat and tales. not of that period of time walk across in front of the car and then disappear completely into the church yard, and appearing to just vanish.
Thank you for sharing that story and your thoughts on Tony Hancock. It’s amazing how his work continues to resonate with new generations, even decades later. He truly was surrounded by some incredible talents like Sid James, Kenneth Williams, and Hattie Jacques. As for the struggles he faced, it’s a reminder of the complexities behind the laughter he brought to so many. Your story about your parents churchyard encounter is fascinating-there's something about those eerie experiences that stay with us. I would love to collate together some strange real life stories into a book one day! Here's hoping Tony is at peace now, reunited with loved ones. Thank you so much for your comment and sharing your story! xxxx
I grew up in Cranford, and was stunned to find out Tony Hancock was interred in the church in the park where we'd spent so much time as teenagers. I had no idea, nor did I realise there was any connection between him and Cranford, although someone else has since pointed out that perhaps his brother lived locally.
Hi! Yes I believe Tony’s brother lived locally ❤️ apologies for the late reply - I’ve only just seen your comment!!! Thank you so much for watching xxx
In my younger days I worked in a few different cemeteries preforming many duties that included general maintenance, landscaping,digging, site prep and burials. I’ve found quite a few odd thing’s but one that came to my immediate attention is the multitude of dogs and cats that are buried on what I’m assuming is their owners grave. To clarify, some plots in cemeteries allow a single plot to be use for double burial, stacked one upon top of the other so when reopened these particular graves, I’d immediately come across animal remains.
Oh! I think there are lots of pet lovers that would like their pets to be buried with them eventually - I do know of some people that have had their beloved pets ashes scattered on their graves xxx
What a lovely video you have given - it is so powerful. Thank you so very much taking the time to produce and preserve the memories of TH. Thank you so much again
Thank you for yet another fascinating and insightful look at another great actor. I'm eating-up your videos one after the other at the moment as I'm quite taken by them! - So much so that I'm even watching about actors and entertainers I haven't had much interest in before, and then being so captivated that I off I go to find out more about them. I just love how you're not only so knowledgeable and charismatic you are in each video but how tender and respectful you are too. Thank you so much, Kurt. x
Your comment has made me soooo happy!!!! Thank you so much - when I started the channel my aim was to really just give a little insight into each person and for people watching to want to research more into the life of the person featured - so to read your comment has truly made my year!!!! I will be smiling all day now! Thank you again!!! Xx
Thank you so much. Have been a fan for quite sometime, have all of Hancock’s Half Hour Radio and TV and his movies. I read a biography on him a few years ago and always remembered that touching bit about his ashes on the plane. So sad to see his resting place almost hidden like that. He will always be a legend to me. Thank you again.
Thank you so much! I literally sobbed trying to tell the ashes story - it took me three goes!!! I get a bit emotional! There was a lot of atmosphere at the church - I couldn’t believe where he was though! And yes! He will always be a legend - a real icon of comedy!
@@BeautifulBadandBizarre I understand that, but I find even watching a movie turns on the water works. Ah Well, I guess I will suffer like all women.😫😉
@@Greenwillow well yes… that’s my experience too if it involves animals lol I love Diana Dors and I’ve watched A Kid for Two Farthings more times than I say say 🤣 but I never fair to cry when I watch it - the little animal graveyard breaks me up every time!
What a sad story behind a man who made so many people laugh. As is sadly too often the case, we dont see the struggles lots of people face, famous or not. On a brighter note how lovely to see you in this video! x
Ah thank you Wendy! Yes terribly sad - he was such a brilliantly comedian but his insecurities consumed him I think - or at least they certainly contributed to his misery x
At the end of the video I’ve made a typo in Tony Hancock’s date of birth in the final frame - I’ve typed 1934 - it should be 1924 ❤
You forgot to mention where the cemetery is. It's
St Dunstan with Holy Angels Churchyard
Cranford, Hounslow, Middlesex, England,
Yes - I do sometimes forget - thanks!
I am 64 and love the nostalgic trip.a shame there all dead .enjoy your programmes
Tony Hancock - Tragic Life & Death of a Comedy Genius. 2.10.23 You remind me of that fella, you have a look of that chap who starred in the film Performance. One of the mobsters... I didn't particularly warm to TH. one of those I'll leave it til i get older......
@@davidrayner9376 I checked the video twice and never heard where he was laid to rest cheers 👍
My mother was watching Hancock and laughed so hard, that she went into an early Labour with me. That's a true story.
🤣🤣🤭 that’s brilliant! I love that!
This is the same with my mother, laughing so hard watching a Norman Wisdom film and went into labour with me.
Ahhh Norman Wisdom! Another fabulous funny comedian! That’s got to be the best way to start labour! 🤭
That happened to me too. I was watching Only Fools & Horses in 1991 & was laughing so much I went into labour with my daughter!
It’s got to be the very best way to start labour!!! 🤣❤️
Thank you for your amazing life stories. I live your speaking voice . I love your tales. Keep it up. Superb ❤
Thank you so much for your lovely comment - you have started my day with a big smile! It’s very appreciated ❤️
Stumbled upon your site. Wonderful stuff - love the narratives & the resting places. The Rebel was an amazing film. I sense that old Hancock was still giving back w/ all the mishaps, trekking & humourous washing line….thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much! I'm so glad you enjoyed the video - I did rather think that about the washing line - it sort of seemed appropriate - thank you for watching! xxxx
Hancock was a genius, his timing was like no other. But for all his talent he had a self distruct button, a tragic figure. Thank you for this, a lovely moving tribute. RIP Tubbs.
You’re very welcome! My absolute pleasure - and I completely agree with you - a total genius but tormented and self sabotaging, so sad and such a loss.
Breaking my heart crying at this. MY COMEDY HERO.
He was great - I particularly loved him with Sid James - I thought they were brilliant together xx
I had heard of Hancock's half hour through my Mum and Dad. But it was untill the pandemic that I was looking for something to listen to and thought I would listen to Hancock's half hour. I'm so glad I did it's so funny even though there nearly 70 years old.i especially loved Kenny William's guest apparences.
The writing is often beyond brilliant and his collaborations gave us the absolute best comedy xx It just so sad the way things went in the end x
I'm a retired cabby who was based out of Heathrow for twelve years. When times were quiet and slow we could be parked up in the taxi feeder park for anything up to four hours. So with the cab safety boxed in I often walked around the local area. Imagine my surprise when I found out my hero's ashes along with his mums were interred within walking distance!
I believe that's because his brother lived in the area and took responsibility for Tony's remains. I took a customer to Bournemouth a while back and they wanted the very same hotel Hancocks parents owned and he lived in. Of course I took a break there before returning and took in the atmosphere and inspected the memorabilia. The man had more demons than Satans birthday party, he was an alcoholic with all the problems that brings but when he was on form he was unbeatable. I remember where I was when I heard the news of his suicide I was in the playground of my junior school! Thanks for the upload among the "younger" people he is becoming forgotten possibly because most of his material is in black and white. To quote the lad himself, "They are missing a treat here!"
Thank you so much for this!!! Firstly I wondered why his ashes were buried there - I knew it would be to do with us brother but I didn’t know Roger lived in the area. Also - I’d never heard the phrase ‘more demons than Satan’s birthday party’ but I love it! And haven’t stopped giggling since I read it! But it’s true he was a very tormented soul - he mad some very bad decisions for sure! I felt the cemetery was very atmospheric - a little unsettling to be honest!
@@BeautifulBadandBizarre There is a story about the return of his ashes from Australia. Willy Rushton who was over there and due to come home was asked to collect and sign for the urn from customs at the airport and see them safely home. He agreed but was terrified of the responsibility of bringing the great man home. On the plane he sat them in the next seat but the attendant said he couldn't leave them there even though he explained who's ashes they were. She gently persuaded him to hand them over. "I'll look after them" she said and took them away up front. Later Rushton was concerned about their whereabouts and poked his head through the curtain into first class and saw them on a seat with a seat belt holding the urn in place. The stewardess saw his astonished look and said "Mr Hancock flies first class"!
That was from Willy himself.
Are you the cabby who refused to take me to Stockley Park, and pointed me to the bus station instead ?
Actually, when he explained how long he had been queuing for a customer I completely understood.
@@ianjones2538 Na, Stockley Park is classed as a local job and you get an hour to do the run and get back straight into a terminal. They are good jobs. I never refused them. Some drivers may want to get away into town or somewhere for an appointment or most likely an afternoons golf session but I could do Stockley Park all day.
Hotel Celebrity in Bournemouth, the place where Tony Hancock lived, has a memorial to him on a first floor landing.
In a glass cabinet - amongst other items, are two of his typewriters; one of which was found in the room where he died.
I saw Tony Hancock when he came to entertain us in Aden in 1967. Forces entertainment. He was brilliant and had us all in stitches.
Oh my goodness that must have been absolutely amazing - what a memory to have! Thank you for sharing! xx
Again I am very impressed with your diligence. I have been a Hancock fan for many years and actually played the great man on stage in Hancock's Last Half Hour which was a real privilege. I always presumed he would be laid to rest in Australia so to find he has a resting place in the UK was a real revelation to me. Many thanks again for another perfect tribute.
Thank you so much for your absolutely lovely comment! It's very much appreciated! ❤❤❤
I first came across Tony Hancock as a child when I found a record of The Blood Donor my parents had Fro. M then on until today I have adored Tony. His comedy was just first class I have listened and watch many of his works. They bring me such laughter and immense pleasure Thank You Craig
My pleasure Craig! Thank you so much for your lovely comment and for watching the video! The Blood Donor is a true comedy classic! Tony was a true talents - it’s so sad how things went - but he has left behind such a fabulous amount of excellent entertainment that never seems to grow old! ❤️
One of the first comedians I can remember hearing and laughing along with when I was a nipper. I still listen to him now, 60 years later. RIP, Tub.
I do too! I never get bored of listening to his work - I love listening when I’m on a long drive! ❤️
Nipper? Are you from Southampton mush?
No; Burmingum.@@Skybowll
Nobody can ever be as brilliant a character as Hancock. His comedy never dates. Such a sad end. RIP
He was brilliant! ❤️
My favourite. Loved his work 😢
Me too! ❤❤❤
Great yet sad comic
Thank you so much for watching ❤️❤️❤️
That was a lovely tribute to a man who was born just up the road to where I live, I remember Hancocks Half Hour quite well, all our family would gather around the old crackling radio and have a good laugh at this very funny man! once again thank you!
Oh that’s lovely! Thank you for sharing that! And for watching the video! He was just so brilliant ❤️❤️❤️
I forgot to say what a great talent he was and the radio shows are pure comedy gold.
So true! ❤️❤️❤️
I remember my Nan and Uncle returning from a theatre visit in London many years ago chuffed that they'd met Sid James and acquired his autograph.
My Nan said that he was a kind man that always had a smile for his fans.
That’s so lovely! I do believe he was always happy to talk to fans and sign autographs - not all of them were! ❤️❤️❤️
Fascinating once again I do love these
Me and my parents went to see Tony H at the Palandeum in August 1963.
I was only 10 but laughted so much Tony H looked at me and said, "at least I've got one fan".
The problem was the audience weren't laughing. Tony H stood in at the last minute after the star didnt appear. The audience weren't geared up to watch him.
Happy memories for me.
Oh that is wonderful!!!! Thank you so much for sharing that memory - I can imagine how brilliant that was! xxxx
As a small child I enjoyed Hancock's Half Hour. Tony Hancock along with the Goons were my favourite brand of British humour and then came along the Carry On gang, many of which had guest starred with Tony Hancock. I was very confused about Hancock's death as I was a teenager at high school and dismayed at losing one of my comedic idols. Later I met Sid James in 1974 when he did a rare live TV interview in Australia. 😂 Thanks for your tribute to Tony Hancock.
You met Sid James? Oh my goodness that would have been a dream come true for me! I loved them all! Tony Hancock was such a talent - a sad end to such greatness 😢 Thank you so much for watching xxxx
Dear Tony. Bless him. ❤
❤️❤️❤️
Really interesting and well narrated😊
I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for your lovely comment and for watching - it’s very appreciated xxxx
he was a very funny man with a knack for talking to the camera, He had problems like all of us but his problems took over his life, May you rest in peace, and I bet the Almighty God is having a big chuckle.
He was! It’s so sad the path he took as he was so talented!
This guy was my hero when growing up it is sad that he was the instrument of his own design, he was so talented, thanks
Great summary of his life. His radio show still holds up decades later. He really had every possible opportunity to do great things, but the alcoholism and inner demons got the better of him. His end was so tragic.
Thank you! Yes I absolutely agree - so sad that it went the way it did x
He did get the opportunity to feature in a Hollywood movie "The Adventures Of Bullwhip Griffin" but the drink got in the way and they "let him go". That was his big chance to be as he called it "international".
It’s wrecked both the careers and private lives of so many creative and talented people xx
Tony hancocks centenary next year but no doubt the BBC will completely ignore the event.
I thinK you could well be right sadly x
So sad....but crikey moses i thought hé was much older than 44...tragic. thank you for a nother interesting vidéo x
I know what you mean! Thank you so much for your lovely comment and for watching the video xx
I have jest found your videos they are very good well done very ino
Welcome aboard! Thank you so much for watching! xx
His insecurity also led to him discarding Kenneth Williams whom he thought was getting more laughs and his character was taking over from his. He was sadly unable to share the limelight, and never realised that he was talented big enough to do so. Still funny to listen to now nearly 70 years on, which is truly amazing.
Yes he was terribly insecure - which is such a shame because he had so much talent - but the entertainment industry then as now required a tougher skin than Tony had xx thank you for watching!
Lovely tribute. I have about 70 episodes of his radio show on mp3 and still listen to them in the car on my way to work. Great writing, great cast and a comedy legend still sadly missed.
Thank you so much - I think the writing seems to me so much stronger then - I have wondered if it was because they had no visuals to rely on and when it transferred to TV there were no fancy sets or special effects and of course the writers had more creative freedom with language and ideas than they seem to have today too ❤️
This was so interesting, strange how many comedians seem to suffer from depression and have sad personal lives x
Thank you! I was pondering on this - I think they hit such a high it was impossible to maintain at the peak - and the more they tried the harder it all became - crushing for the ego!
I think sad people try to hide their sadness from other people with humour.
That applies to class clowns and office jokers as well as professional comedians.
I’d certainly agree x Some of the most talented and funny people have had the deepest insecurities and sadness that they hid from the world xx
Thank you again for a lovely and respectful post....as usual....please take care of your beautiful smile...your heart is true x
Thank you so much! Your comment is very appreciated - thank you for watching the video! ❤️❤️❤️
My mother actually met him.
When he was in Australia 1968. She worked for a bakery and delivered bread to houses around Sydney. One of the areas was Bellevue Hill. He approached her asking for half a loaf. He took out some change but she gave it to him for free. She didn’t know who he was. Until after he died and it was on the news that’s when she recognised him. She often told us he looked miserable and his eyes looked sad. Which is why she gave him the bread. He said thank you miss. As he walked away.
True story
Thank you so much for sharing this! It must have been quite a shock for your mother when she realised who it was - and what a lovely thing she did ❤️ such a sad situation xx
@@BeautifulBadandBizarre yeah she was definitely shocked.
Humans are terrible at parenting!
Early childhood for millions is a disaster; Tony’s demons stemmed from that time.
When will we learn?
Thank you for the excellent videos, and RIP one of the greatest comedians - Tony Hancock.
I think parenting skills and how important parenting is should be taught in schools - although even if you have a good understanding of what a child needs - it’s still the hardest job in the world and yet one that isn’t valued as much as it should be xx Thank you so much for your comment and for watching the video! ❤️❤️❤️
I have a complete set of BBC Hancock comedies on vinyl LP.
He was a genuine comedy genius,one of my faves.
I was born on june 25th.
That’s marvellous! I love vinyl records I collect them too - don’t have Tony Hancock’s work though - that’s a special LP to own! June is a lovely month for birthdays!
Lovely, really lovely. Of course, so sad too.
Thank you so much ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you💐
Tony Hancock, the legend. RIP ❤️🇬🇧
My wife and I LOVED TONY HANCOCK. I was gutted to learn that This Genius took his own life in Sydney. Our family emigrated to Melbourne in 1961, and were utterly shattered to learn of Tony's demise. He was such a character. When I returned to the UK in 1998 and again in 2001, I was determined to find the famous RAILWAY CUTTINGS address, but then realised it was indeed a fictitious address. I remember walking all over London looking for the full series of Tony's radio shows HANCOCK'S HALF HOUR. My wife and I played those tapes every time we went away on long trips and for the 1200 km drive from Melbourne to Brisbane via Sydney we were both paralytic with laughter and I am surprised we even complete our journey safely. One of my favourite episodes was the time when Tony decided to write poetry and had joined a "Poetic" society, and composed a poem about "RINKY TINKY ON PURPLE GRASS" Our Australian Actor who also featured in TAKE IT FROM HERE with Jimmy Edwards and June Whitfield was also in that episode and as usual; Syd James' poem had to do with Horse Racing. What a tragic loss! RIP HANCOCK. Thank you for the tons of laughs you and your crew gave us.
Oh!!!! I lived in Melbourne too - Avondale Heights - for a couple of years during my childhood x yes Tony was a phenomenal talent! I still cry-laugh at ‘Sunday Afternoon’ and he was superb when teamed up with Hattie Jacques and Sid James ❤️ Thank you so much for watching the video 🌹
@@BeautifulBadandBizarre Thank you kindly for a prompt response, Avondale Heights eh, I was on the other side of the Yarra. We lived in South Caulfield until; we bought our current house in West Gippsland, which we affectionately term "THE LATRINE VALLEY" instead of The Latrobe Valley as it rains here much like it used to in Scotland. Thank you so much for bringing this programme to us. So sad that he was so self destructive but then again; I suppose being a comic genius, it must have been hard for him to fight those demons. Once again many thanks and kind Rregards
Always a pleasure - although I often slip behind on messages I always try my best to catch up as I love talking about my favourite subjects 🤭 Yes - we were in Sydney for a time and then moved to Melbourne!
I agree about Tony being self destructive and he was such a great loss to the future of comedy so - what he could have achieved!!!!
Australian Bill Kerr (1922 - 2014) was in Hancock's Half Hour radio show 1954 - 1959. wikipedia
Thank you xxx
My pleasure - thank you for watching ❤️
Fascinating, thank you, and RIP The Lad Himself
You’re very welcome! Thank you so much for watching ❤️
I never met the great genius personally, about 4 decades ago while in my mid 20's I had called into a Marylebone pub where I met; I think he was a solicitor who told me the 2 'Hancock' writers got in this pub several times a week, ray Galton and Alan Simson darn just to say I never got to meet them neither, but I still soaked up the atmosphere , and talked 'Hancock' for several hours with this hardened 'Hancock' fan. I remember the solicitor offering to extend our stay in London with his home that's not the magic of me, that's the magic effect of 'the time but mainly the boy's Hancock', Galton and Simson.
Oh like what your doing with you video's paying respect too those who entertained us in our youth a golden time, when you plug in your radio and not your tooth brush, when it was a lucky man-woman who got of this world alive, yeah there pretty old one's long past there shelf life, when the cooper's are looking younger and younger then you know the best years are behind me, hold on to your trousers, as one get's rattled out reverberating down each trouser leg.
Thank you for paying respects to a great comic genius he doubted his own ability, Hancock just had to raise his eyebrows and I would be in stitches, if he lost his comic timing, I still would admire him, Hancock didn't lose, it was the world who lost out overall.
Dadio dictates and I write for him, these are his words but.
This is so lovely!!!!!Thank you so much for this comment and for watching the video and thank you to your Dad too! much appreciated indeed - I'm such a huge fan of Galton and Simpson as well - what a team they were! Can I also say I am absolutely smiling at the phrase 'when you plug in your radio and not your tooth brush' I love that!!! Yes!!! Those were the days indeed! Thank you and your dad again, for such a great comment - it's very much appreciated! xx
@@BeautifulBadandBizarre your very wecome.
My wife and I were married in this church (St Dunstans) back in 73, we used to visit Cranford Park quite often but have never seen anything strange in the churchyard! It was nice to see the church again in your video.
That’s so lovely! It’s such a pretty church - I didn’t get to go inside but I can imagine it’s very special - you really do get the sense of the past there - amazing to think it’s been there since medieval times - so rich in history! ❤️
Unique Talent
I agree xxxx
I absolutely love Tony Hancock. He was such a funny man. Great entertainer. Love his work.
Me too! xx thank you for watching xx
I was brought up on a digest of black and white comedy, film, and TV. Eventually getting colour in the late 60's! I just love all the old films and tv shows and all the characters they produced. They really were good old days. I find your films so very interesting and respectfully presented. I can tell you are a big fan as well. You are such a lovely Lady, Thank you.
Thank you so much! And thank you for watching - I appreciate that very much’ and YES! I was brought up the same! 🤣 I am a very big fan - I’m also very much into the lesser known starts too - the ones that were constantly working but weren’t as well known - I find it all so interesting! ❤️
I was a schoolgirl in Australia, when he killed himself in Sydney. But i was shocked and saddened, we watched Hancock/s Half Hour here.
I moved to Australia with my family shortly after it happened - Sydney first and then Melbourne! It was a very sad time to hear he had died x thank you so much for watching x
Yet another brilliant story. Thank you
Thank you so very much Paul - sorry for the late response I'm catching up on comments today! xx
i've fallen asleep to Hancock's half hour since my parents will have suggested i listen, sometime back in the early eighties?
forty years
when i was a teenager and discovering flanders and swann and the goons as well lol..
but without Kenneth and definitely without sid and bill i still, even now, don't see the attraction..
i can't get over his not wanting them
thankyou for sharing this and the others that you do 🙂 x
So many comedians have tragedy behind the face we see.
Comedy is an escape for them. I love a good laugh, I just wish their happiness was better.
This is so true ❤️🌹
What a great summary. Born exactly a century ago. Back in the day many people would carefully tape Hancock Halfhour on their reel to reel tape recorders to listen again just like with video recorders.
Thank you so much for your lovely comment! I’m glad you enjoyed the video. It’s amazing to think about how dedicated fans were back then, carefully taping Hancock’s Half Hour on reel-to-reel recorders to enjoy again later (I had one!!) It really shows how much his work meant to people and how timeless his humour remains. xxxx
Well done, nicely narrated. I worked in the homeless sector ... we had a fellow who would bed down for the night under a moveable slab and a hollow recess in the middle of a graveyard. He preferred that to living in a hostel. But would call in for hot meals from time to time. When I was a police officer I would sit with my sandwhiches and watch out for the grey lady , who was often seen by security guards at car park . I never saw her. Or anyone else funnily enough. Nice quiet spot for me midnight lunch. I posess a picture pre digital....I took a foto of a kings head on a doorway to a church. When I got the foto back there was just one eye looking back where there should have been an empty hole. Most peculiar . When digital came in I took a foto of the photo...in an attempt to blow it up .....which I did....and the eye looks even more real....oooerrr mrs. But Ive had a lifetime of seeing the odd ofd unexplainable thing .....exoerience. The only one that gave me the heebie gerbies .....were shadow people. I watched them as I walked home 17 yrs old. For about 3 or 4 mins ( police cadet ). 12 .25 am. . It was totally unexpected and I had no idea what the hell they were . I rang the station....but they found no signs of anything. I have seen weirder but they upset my equlibrium. Thus would love to see again to check it out. Now I am a old man lol.
Oooh!!! Thank you for your interesting stories! I think there are certainly many things that can’t be explained! I keep meaning to go back to that particular cemetery to see if it has the same feel as it did that particular day I went there - I’ve since learned that Tony is in the strange/odd area almost outside of the churchyard due to the manner of his death - I think that’s so sad x
@@BeautifulBadandBizarre Indeed it is silly. Most graveyards have two realities. One a yew.....as yews where the key significant tree in old worship ....pre Christian...Thus the sign that it has been holy before Christianity, and two the west side should hold the graveyard. All churches face the same directions ...east for birth hence christening side and west for death as with the movement of the sun. So no matter where you were dropped in Europe you could tell nsew..by the church. Handy in a war in a parachute descending into fog.....otherwise not so handy to know lol. . I'm the only person I know that gets Deva jue in visual and dialogue lasting minutes. Anything caught in a moment is imagination....those things that linger not so. I like this little Poem. I saw a man who wasn't there ( done it myself) he wasn't there again today I wish that man would go away.
Love his radio series,and got the Hancock half half hour cd box set plus the dvd, but this what I just watching is very sad,rip tony Hancock, thanks for this video
Thank you for your comment! It’s great to hear you’re a fan of Tony Hancock and his radio series. He truly left a lasting legacy, and it’s poignant to reflect on his life and career. I appreciate you watching the video! Thank you so much xxxx
My uncle was was an estate agent for Tony Hancock 😊
love tony hancock. so funny...even now in an age where random tv panelists are considered stars, he is a god
I agree! ❤❤❤
I love your explorations,lots of useful and honest info, Back in the day Handcock,and Handcocks Half Hour, an absolute MUST,
Truly a troubled Genius,,,,,,, Thank You,,,
Thank you so much! And thank you for watching! Tony was brilliant! ❤️
Beautifully written and a warm delivery. Your visits to graves is touching and also revealing. I appreciate your work.
I was brought up on Hancock and he has always been a favourite. I remember even Hancock single-45 records! I played them to death as a child (Dad used to smile at my fascination).
Your narrative is so interesting: the good, the sad and the tragedy of Hancock.
Thank you so much for your kind words and for sharing your personal memories of Tony Hancock. Hancock's unique brand of humor and his memorable performances have left a lasting legacy, and it's wonderful to know that his records brought you so much joy as a child.
I'm glad you found the narrative interesting. Tony Hancock's life had its highs and lows, and it's important to remember both the joy he brought to many and the challenges he faced. Your appreciation of the video means a lot, and I'm grateful for both your lovely comment and that you watch the video xxxx
Loved this. I'm a big Hancock fan so this was a real treat. A flawed genius but a genius nonetheless.
Thank you! Yes I agree he was - he had so much natural talent ❤️
@@BeautifulBadandBizarre Sunday afternoon at home I think is flawless . Pure gold
@@markwalker4219 not many people would get that now 🤣🤣🤣 I certainly do!
The strangest thing I found in a cemetery was a clean thigh bone when I was seven and visiting the grave of my nan with my mum. I was proud as punch, thinking it was from a deer or something, but my mum was mortified and told me to put it back. I was an innocent child and quite introvert, so never forgot the story. Thank you so much for your videos, they are really interesting and I enjoy your voice.
😮 that certainly beats anything I’ve ever found in a cemetery! Oh my goodness I can just imagine your mum’s face 🤭 Thank you so much! I’m so pleased you’ve enjoyed the videos and thank you so much for watching! ❤️
Tony Hancock had everything and nothing.
There must have been other areas of entertainment where he could have excelled. Writing, directing etc.
Rest In Peace 💐
I'm sure given time he could have progressed to one of those careers or maybe all xxxx
I so enjoyed the series on the radio as a child
I still listen on Spotify! He was amazing!
Even now his programs are funny and to think he’s now in an almost forgotten spot in a windswept and bleak looking churchyard but I’m sure he’s laughing at the line of knickers left behind, the mind boggles, maybe someone misunderstood the word bloomers to mean something other than flowers on that occasion. Well done on reaching a thousand. X.
I still listen to his shows on Spotify! Especially in the car on long journeys! The church yard itself is amazing but weirdly it’s isolated and yet not at the same time! There is a busy road that runs along side of it with non stop heavy traffic. I thought that with the washing line 🤭 Thank you! I’m well happy to have hit 1k and still can’t believe it! Thank you for your support!
What a lovely lady you are! You give all of your featured heavenly stars a huge respect and i think the beautiful flowers cap off your sweet natured videos a treat! Thank you! Incidentally, i wonder if one day, you would visit Nancy Spungen @ Sid Vicious's final resting place please, as i am a big fan of theirs. Thank you once again! xxxxx
Thank you so much! I truly appreciate your comment 🌹 ohhhh! Sid and Nancy - now you’re talking my teenage years! I remember those days well - I believe Nancy is buried in the US and Sid’s mother wanted her son buried with Nancy but Nancy’s family objected so rumour has it that his ashes sprinkled on Nancy grave - I don’t know for sure but I did hear that ❤️
@@BeautifulBadandBizarre You're very welcome and thank you for your info. I appreciate this. xxxxx
2024 will mark the 100th birthday of the comedy legend
It will!!! I wonder if the Tony Hancock Appreciation Society will do anything special for it!
This is a great channel
Thank you so much!!!! ❤️❤️❤️
As a teenager It was the highlight of each Sunday afternoon to listen to Hancock's Half Hour. I once saw a documentary about him and was very pleased to note that the producer's favourite episode was also mine - A Sunday Afternoon. The jokes were so good but also contemporary - like the title of the movie in the paper - I Was A Teenage Vampire and Drank The Blood on My Washboard a reference to U.S. horror movies and Skiffle music. The washing line was far out.
Oh I love ‘A Sunday Afternoon - Stone me, what a day’ 🤣 I still listen to it every now and again on Spotify 🤭 It never gets old and I can certainly relate!
I loved all the episodes with Hattie. (“At least their gravy used to move about a bit” 😂)
I didn’t think any of his other female supporting actors were at all funny. Yes, I remember screaming with laughter as a child listening that Sunday Afternoon episode. Sundays really were as boring as that in those days.
Hi. When I'm painting I enjoy listening to biogs and seeing as I love classic British humour and film, your channel serves as a perfect companion to me.
Thanks so much for well produced uploads.
Jeff.xxxx
That’s absolutely amazing! Thank you Jeff! I love that! I’ve got a fab one lined up next - film more than humour - I hope you enjoy it! ❤️
Great comedian. I love a movie "Rebel", where he played unaccomplished art painter and accompanied by another British great, George Sanders. Why did I mention them? Because shortly after both actors committed suicide. Did you know about that? Sidney James and John Le Mesurier (mentioned in video) were great actors too. Unfortunately, American TV shows no signs to bring the British and the whole European film culture here to the US.
Yes I know them all very well… figuratively speaking 🤭 they are all major favourites of mine! One of my favourite movie scenes is in All About Eve when George enters the party with Marilyn Monroe! Wonderful film - but apparently his wife Zsa Zsa Gabor wouldn’t allow George to eat in the canteen with Marilyn while on set 🤭
Have always enjoyed Hancock a genius and a very complicated man. I think he only wanted to get the laughs and so destroyed the many friends around him. RIP Anthony you have brought me such joy
I agree - I think you’re right - the laughs meant so much to him ❤️
Stone me, what a talented lovely man, if anyone disagree then i’ll give them a punch up the bracket!!
😂😂😂 I don’t disagree 🤣🤣🤣
Ha! I haven't ever heard a "punch up the bracket" lol, but I'm American and we have some catching up to do.
Thank you so much. Great video as always, well done on finding the plaque x
Thank you! I was so surprised to eventually find it there! I thought it would be in a more prominent place!
Hello Shar,
As the only gardener in my family it's left to me to look after the family graves.
I look after my maternal grandmother's grave, as I was very close to her, once I was tending the grave, which is in a fairly open location, I was suddenly hit by a very strong smell of perfume which seemed to come from nowhere, it lasted a short while before leaving. The perfume we always associate with my grandmother, but we can't remember the name of it.
Best Wishes from Wales.
Hi Paul! Thank you so much that’s a lovely story! I’ve had a similar experience too! I’d love to know the name of the perfume your grandmother wore - perfume is another passion of mine 🤭 not so much wearing it but I’m interested in the vintage perfumes my favourite actresses wore! Xx
@@BeautifulBadandBizarre
My mother also had a similar experience, sat in a pub having a drink, the same thing, a strong smell perfume suddenly descended and then went away.
I enjoy your video's, it's always interesting to learn about people who were famous and such familiar names and faces to us all. 👍
Your presentation is excellent thank you
Thank you so much! And thank you for watching! ❤️
That story from 13:38 brought a tear to my eye
People around the globe loved his show..me too...
Thank you so much for watching ❤️❤️❤️ He was brilliant! ❤️❤️❤️
Beautiful bad and bazaar thank you so much such great content in your storys lv Pauliexxx and Ginaxxxxxx
Thank you so very much! ❤️❤️❤️
An excellent video, thanks for sharing it with us
Thank you so much and thank you for watching x
Thanks so much for posting.
My pleasure! Thank you for watching xxxx
Thanks for this video - I was born in 1952 & grew up enjoying Tony Hancock’s humour and of course many of his contemporaries. If anyone is anything like me it would be John `Le John the mesurier - very poorly gytrated by some of his closest friends (including both Hattie & Joan). Like you, I am fond of visiting churches & other Iconic, if strange English historical sites. And believe it or not , I am a member of the burial board which serves two local parishes. ISO, I know where I am going to eventually lie! Hopefully a quite a few years in the future.R.D.
You’re very welcome! Thank you for watching! Oh yes I agree totally about John! And also about visiting interesting places! I just truly love history - and discovering more about the lives of people from the past - both famous and not famous! I’ve discovered so amazingly interesting ‘ordinary’ lives on my research journeys! My friend has also secured her place for the future 🤭 ❤️
Well done injoying your pieces
Thank you so much! xxxx
very many thanks, and very well done.
Thank you so much - I really appreciate that ❤️ thank you for watching!
Well. You have hit the sweet spot as usual. I am a bit of a Tony anorak (a member of THAS for many years). Thank you so much..
Thank you so much! Oh my goodness Tony was such an interesting person! And of course incredibly talented! X
This site is extraordinary and unique,and I am certain that no other country could have produces such in depth information in this field,REMARKABLE 🤟
That’s so lovely if you! Thank you so much for your kind comment - it’s very much appreciated! ❤️
Interesting find of the camp site ! What a brilliant and also destructive mind Tony had towards the end tragic. Love your trips to these wonderful cemeteries and graveyards. You captured it all so well 💕 Well done 👏 👏
Thank you so much! Yes it’s often the way - brilliant and destructive x Well it was rather odd with the washing line 🤭 and I couldn’t help laughing as it felt a bit like a comedy sketch! 🤣
A flawed genius, with internal demons he couldn't control,but that should not excuse his behaviour. Fabulous,young lady 👍
So very true Chris! Thank you for your comment!!! ❤️❤️❤️
wonderfully done
Thank you so much xxxx
very well put together insight to the life of Tony Hancock.
Thank you so much! ❤️ I appreciate that! 🌹
@@BeautifulBadandBizarre loved the Hattie Jacques & Joan Simms as well. Have now subscribed
Brilliant research
Thank you so much ❤️
Great showman rare to see these vintage film reels
He was! Brilliant ❤️
Thank you for your lovely posts.
You’re most welcome! Thank you! X
Love your work.
Thank you so much! ❤️❤️❤️
Lovely video 👍
Thank you so much and thank you for watching ❤️❤️❤️
I was born in 1966 so only have become more aware of his work in my 50’s. Especially as you say working with great partnerships such as Sid James, Kenneth Williams and Hattie Jakes. Like us all I guess he had his demons alcohol being the biggest one. I truly hope the Man is now resting in heavenly peace with his lovely mum. As far as graveyard experiences it was not my experience but my late father and mothers they were driving home from a party. My my dad had told me a story of driving Home on the country road and opposite on this country Road, was a churchyard seeing a very strange person in top Hat and tales. not of that period of time walk across in front of the car and then disappear completely into the church yard, and appearing to just vanish.
Thank you for sharing that story and your thoughts on Tony Hancock. It’s amazing how his work continues to resonate with new generations, even decades later. He truly was surrounded by some incredible talents like Sid James, Kenneth Williams, and Hattie Jacques. As for the struggles he faced, it’s a reminder of the complexities behind the laughter he brought to so many. Your story about your parents churchyard encounter is fascinating-there's something about those eerie experiences that stay with us. I would love to collate together some strange real life stories into a book one day! Here's hoping Tony is at peace now, reunited with loved ones. Thank you so much for your comment and sharing your story! xxxx
I grew up in Cranford, and was stunned to find out Tony Hancock was interred in the church in the park where we'd spent so much time as teenagers. I had no idea, nor did I realise there was any connection between him and Cranford, although someone else has since pointed out that perhaps his brother lived locally.
Hi! Yes I believe Tony’s brother lived locally ❤️ apologies for the late reply - I’ve only just seen your comment!!! Thank you so much for watching xxx
WHICH Cranford ? Heathrow, Torridge or Devon?
@@raymondokonski7018 Heathrow, right under the flight path!
My Late Dad liked Tony Hancock I like Tony Hancock
Excellent brilliant comedian 👏
Thank you so much for your comment! Tony Hancock was incredibly talented! ❤️❤️❤️
In my younger days I worked in a few different cemeteries preforming many duties that included general maintenance, landscaping,digging, site prep and burials. I’ve found quite a few odd thing’s but one that came to my immediate attention is the multitude of dogs and cats that are buried on what I’m assuming is their owners grave. To clarify, some plots in cemeteries allow a single plot to be use for double burial, stacked one upon top of the other so when reopened these particular graves, I’d immediately come across animal remains.
Oh! I think there are lots of pet lovers that would like their pets to be buried with them eventually - I do know of some people that have had their beloved pets ashes scattered on their graves xxx
Another very interesting,video that is first class,and first class in its presentation and information ,love them
Thank you so much for your lovely comment and thank you for watching! It’s very appreciated! ❤️🌹
What a lovely video you have given - it is so powerful. Thank you so very much taking the time to produce and preserve the memories of TH. Thank you so much again
Thank you for yet another fascinating and insightful look at another great actor. I'm eating-up your videos one after the other at the moment as I'm quite taken by them! - So much so that I'm even watching about actors and entertainers I haven't had much interest in before, and then being so captivated that I off I go to find out more about them. I just love how you're not only so knowledgeable and charismatic you are in each video but how tender and respectful you are too. Thank you so much, Kurt. x
Your comment has made me soooo happy!!!! Thank you so much - when I started the channel my aim was to really just give a little insight into each person and for people watching to want to research more into the life of the person featured - so to read your comment has truly made my year!!!! I will be smiling all day now! Thank you again!!! Xx
Thank you so much. Have been a fan for quite sometime, have all of Hancock’s Half Hour Radio and TV and his movies. I read a biography on him a few years ago and always remembered that touching bit about his ashes on the plane. So sad to see his resting place almost hidden like that. He will always be a legend to me. Thank you again.
Thank you so much! I literally sobbed trying to tell the ashes story - it took me three goes!!! I get a bit emotional! There was a lot of atmosphere at the church - I couldn’t believe where he was though! And yes! He will always be a legend - a real icon of comedy!
@@BeautifulBadandBizarre I would probably be bawling myself if I was there, pre-menapause😳😉
🤣🤣🤣 I hear you! I really do lol Because I focus on people I love - I find it really hard sometimes dealing with the sad bits! 😥
@@BeautifulBadandBizarre I understand that, but I find even watching a movie turns on the water works. Ah Well, I guess I will suffer like all women.😫😉
@@Greenwillow well yes… that’s my experience too if it involves animals lol I love Diana Dors and I’ve watched A Kid for Two Farthings more times than I say say 🤣 but I never fair to cry when I watch it - the little animal graveyard breaks me up every time!
What a sad story behind a man who made so many people laugh. As is sadly too often the case, we dont see the struggles lots of people face, famous or not. On a brighter note how lovely to see you in this video! x
Ah thank you Wendy! Yes terribly sad - he was such a brilliantly comedian but his insecurities consumed him I think - or at least they certainly contributed to his misery x
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mack_Sennett