Groucho Marx

Date of Birth: October 2, 1890

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: August 19, 1977

Biography

Julius Henry “Groucho” Marx was an American comedian, writer, stage, film, radio, and television star who was known for his quick wit and sharp humor. Born on October 2, 1890, in New York City, Groucho was one of the five Marx Brothers who revolutionized American comedy. The Marx Brothers were acclaimed for their vaudeville acts, Broadway shows, and films, most notably “Duck Soup” and “A Night at the Opera.” Groucho’s career spanned over seven decades, during which he became renowned for his distinctive appearance—characterized by his exaggerated eyebrows, glasses, and mustache—and his memorable performances. He ventured into solo work with his radio show “You Bet Your Life,” which later transitioned to television, further solidifying his place in entertainment history. Apart from his work in entertainment, Groucho was also a talented writer and authored several books, including his autobiography “Groucho and Me.” He was married three times and had three children. Groucho Marx passed away on August 19, 1977, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and wit that continues to influence comedians and entertain audiences worldwide.

5 Interesting Facts about Groucho Marx

1. Groucho Marx’s signature look—thick eyebrows, mustache, and glasses—originated from his vaudeville performances where he used greasepaint for quick makeup changes.

2. The Marx Brothers’ film “Duck Soup” was initially a box office failure but later became considered one of the greatest comedy films of all time.

3. Groucho was an avid reader and had a personal library of over 3,000 books.

4. He was a master of wordplay and known for his clever puns and ad-libbing during performances.

5. Groucho was awarded an honorary Academy Award in 1974, recognizing his contributions to the world of comedy.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Groucho Marx

1. “I refuse to join any club that would have me as a member.”

2. “Outside of a dog, a book is a man’s best friend. Inside of a dog, it’s too dark to read.”

3. “I never forget a face, but in your case, I’ll be glad to make an exception.”

4. “Those are my principles, and if you don’t like them… well, I have others.”

5. “Time flies like an arrow; fruit flies like a banana.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

At the peak of his career, Groucho Marx’s net worth was estimated to be approximately $12 million, adjusting for inflation.

Children

Groucho Marx had three children: 1. Arthur Marx (1921-2011) – An author and television writer. 2. Miriam Marx (1927-2017) – An author. 3. Melinda Marx (b. 1946) – An actress and singer.