Stanley Augustus Holloway, OBE (1 October 1890 – 30 January 1982), was an English actor and performer known for both comic and character work on stage and screen. He also built a reputation as a singer, poet and monologist over a long professional life.
Overview
Holloway became widely recognised for his portrayal of Alfred P. Doolittle in the stage and film versions of My Fair Lady. He was also celebrated for a set of humorous monologues and songs that he performed live and made available on recordings. His career spanned roughly seven decades, beginning in the early 20th century and continuing into his later years.
Early life
He was born on 1 October 1890 in Manor Park, Essex, England. Details of his childhood and early training are less widely cited than his later work, but he moved into professional entertainment in his youth and established a variety act that combined comic verse, character sketches and musical numbers.
Career
Holloway worked steadily on stage and in films, often cast in roles that made use of his comic timing and distinctive speaking voice. His monologues—short, humorous spoken pieces—became a signature part of his output, and many of these were recorded for public sale. The role of Alfred P. Doolittle remains his best-known dramatic credit and brought him international recognition.
Personal life
- Married Alice Foran in 1913; the marriage ended in divorce in 1937.
- Married Violet Lane in 1939; they remained married until his death.
- Father of five children.
Death
Stanley Holloway died on 30 January 1982 in Littlehampton, England, at the age of 91, following an illness.