45 Facts About Marty Feldman

Early Life and Background

Marty Feldman, known for his distinctive looks and comedic talent, had an interesting life that shaped his career. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about his early years.

1. Marty Feldman was born on July 8, 1934, in London, England. His parents were of Ukrainian Jewish descent.

2. As a child, he suffered from severe asthma, which often kept him bedridden. This led him to develop a love for reading and writing.

3. Feldman left school at the age of 15 to pursue a career in show business. He initially worked as a jazz trumpeter before transitioning to comedy.

4. His unique appearance, characterized by his bulging eyes, was due to a condition called Graves' disease. This condition affected his thyroid and caused his eyes to protrude.

Career Beginnings

Marty Feldman's career took off in the 1960s, and he quickly became a household name in British comedy.

5. He started his career as a writer for British radio and television shows, including "The Army Game" and "Bootsie and Snudge."

6. Feldman gained fame as a writer and performer on the British television show "At Last the 1948 Show," which also featured John Cleese and Graham Chapman.

7. His work on "At Last the 1948 Show" led to his involvement with the iconic comedy group Monty Python. He contributed to the writing of several sketches.

8. In 1968, he starred in his own television series, "Marty," which won two BAFTA awards and solidified his status as a comedic genius.

Hollywood Success

Marty Feldman's talent eventually brought him to Hollywood, where he continued to make a significant impact.

9. Feldman made his Hollywood debut in the 1974 film "Young Frankenstein," directed by Mel Brooks. He played the role of Igor, which became one of his most memorable performances.

10. His portrayal of Igor was so iconic that it earned him a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

11. Feldman went on to star in several other films, including "The Adventure of Sherlock Holmes' Smarter Brother" and "Silent Movie."

12. He also directed and starred in the 1977 film "The Last Remake of Beau Geste," showcasing his versatility as a filmmaker.

Personal Life

Beyond his professional achievements, Marty Feldman's personal life was equally intriguing.

13. Feldman married Lauretta Sullivan in 1959. The couple remained together until his death in 1982.

14. Despite his comedic persona, Feldman was known to be a private and introspective individual. He often used humor as a coping mechanism for his insecurities.

15. He was an avid reader and had a particular interest in philosophy and literature. His favorite authors included Franz Kafka and Samuel Beckett.

16. Feldman was a vegetarian and an advocate for animal rights. He often spoke out against animal cruelty and supported various animal welfare organizations.

Legacy and Influence

Marty Feldman's influence on comedy and entertainment continues to be felt long after his passing.

17. His unique comedic style and physical appearance inspired many comedians and actors, including Rowan Atkinson and Jim Carrey.

18. Feldman's work on "At Last the 1948 Show" and his collaborations with Monty Python helped shape the landscape of British comedy.

19. His performance as Igor in "Young Frankenstein" remains a classic example of physical comedy and has been referenced in numerous films and television shows.

20. Feldman's contributions to comedy were recognized posthumously when he was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1983.

Final Years and Death

Marty Feldman's life was tragically cut short, but his legacy endures.

21. In the early 1980s, Feldman moved to Mexico to work on the film "Yellowbeard," which was co-written by Graham Chapman.

22. On December 2, 1982, Feldman died of a heart attack in Mexico City at the age of 48. His death was attributed to food poisoning and a history of heart problems.

23. He was buried in the Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Los Angeles, California.

24. Feldman's final film, "Yellowbeard," was released posthumously in 1983. The film was dedicated to his memory.

25. His widow, Lauretta, continued to honor his legacy by supporting various charitable causes and preserving his work for future generations.

Interesting Tidbits

Here are some lesser-known facts about Marty Feldman that add to his fascinating persona.

26. Feldman was a talented mimic and could impersonate various celebrities and political figures with ease.

27. He had a passion for magic and often performed magic tricks for friends and family.

28. Feldman once said that his comedic inspiration came from watching Charlie Chaplin and Buster Keaton films as a child.

29. He was known for his improvisational skills and often ad-libbed lines during performances, much to the delight of his co-stars.

30. Feldman was a frequent guest on talk shows and variety programs, where his quick wit and humor made him a favorite among audiences.

Impact on Pop Culture

Marty Feldman's influence extends beyond his lifetime, leaving a lasting mark on pop culture.

31. His iconic look and comedic style have been parodied in various television shows, including "The Simpsons" and "Family Guy."

32. Feldman's catchphrase, "Walk this way," from "Young Frankenstein" has been referenced and imitated in countless films and TV shows.

33. His work has been celebrated in numerous retrospectives and documentaries, highlighting his contributions to comedy and entertainment.

34. Feldman's influence can be seen in the work of contemporary comedians who cite him as a major inspiration.

35. His legacy continues to be honored through various awards and recognitions, including the Marty Feldman Comedy Award, which celebrates excellence in comedy.

Quotes and Anecdotes

Marty Feldman was known for his witty remarks and humorous anecdotes. Here are a few memorable quotes and stories.

36. Feldman once quipped, "I am too old to die young, and too young to grow up."

37. He often joked about his appearance, saying, "I have a face that would stop a clock, and that's not easy."

38. Feldman had a great sense of humor about his condition, once remarking, "I have a thyroid problem. It makes my eyes pop out. But it also makes me very funny."

39. He was known for his generosity and kindness, often going out of his way to help friends and colleagues in need.

40. Feldman once recounted a story about meeting his idol, Charlie Chaplin, saying, "Meeting Chaplin was like meeting God. I was speechless."

Fun Facts

Let's wrap up with some fun and quirky facts about Marty Feldman that showcase his unique personality.

41. Feldman was a huge fan of the Marx Brothers and often incorporated their style of humor into his own performances.

42. He had a pet parrot named Charlie, who was known to mimic his owner's distinctive voice.

43. Feldman was an accomplished painter and often created surreal and abstract artworks in his spare time.

44. He had a love for classic cars and owned several vintage vehicles, including a 1936 Rolls-Royce.

45. Feldman was a skilled chess player and often challenged friends and colleagues to matches, which he usually won.

Marty Feldman's Legacy

Marty Feldman left an unforgettable mark on comedy and entertainment. His unique appearance, sharp wit, and fearless approach to humor made him a standout figure. From his early days in British television to his iconic role in "Young Frankenstein," Feldman consistently pushed boundaries. His influence can still be seen in modern comedy, inspiring countless comedians and actors. Despite his untimely death at 48, Feldman's work continues to be celebrated and appreciated by fans old and new. His ability to blend physical comedy with intelligent satire set a high bar for those who followed. Remembering Marty Feldman isn't just about his achievements; it's about celebrating a man who dared to be different and succeeded in making the world laugh. His legacy remains a testament to the power of individuality and creativity in the arts.