Oliver Hardy

Date of Birth: January 18, 1892

Zodiac Sign: Capricorn

Date of Death: August 7, 1957

Biography

Oliver Hardy, born Norvell Hardy, was an American comic actor and one-half of the famous comedy duo Laurel and Hardy, which became one of the most beloved and influential partnerships in the world of entertainment. Born on January 18, 1892, in Harlem, Georgia, Hardy was the youngest of five children. He developed an interest in music and theater at an early age and eventually pursued a career in vaudeville and film. In 1921, Hardy met English comedian Stan Laurel, and the two began their partnership, which would span over two decades and include 107 films. Their slapstick humor and impeccable timing made them international stars, beloved by audiences of all ages. Some of their most famous works include “Sons of the Desert” (1933), “Way Out West” (1937), and “The Music Box” (1932), which won an Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film. Hardy’s career was not without its challenges. He battled health issues and struggled with his weight throughout his life. Despite these difficulties, he continued to perform and maintain a successful career until his final years.

5 Interesting Facts about Oliver Hardy

1. Oliver Hardy was originally named Norvell Hardy; he later adopted the name Oliver as a tribute to his father.

2. Hardy was an accomplished singer and often incorporated his singing talent into his films.

3. He had a brief stint as a boxer before fully committing to his acting career.

4. Hardy and Laurel’s film “The Music Box” (1932) won the first Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film (Comedy).

5. Despite their on-screen chemistry, Hardy and Laurel had very different personalities and often spent little time together off-screen.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Oliver Hardy

1. “A lot of people said I couldn’t do this. I guess I proved them wrong.”

2. “I don’t know much about being a millionaire, but I’ll bet I’d be darling at it.”

3. “If any of you cry at my funeral, I’ll never speak to you again!”

4. “You can lead a horse to water, but a pencil must be led.”

5. “I love the silent era because it was so universal. No language barriers.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Oliver Hardy’s highest net worth was estimated to be around $500,000 at the peak of his career, which would be worth several million dollars today due to inflation.

Children

Oliver Hardy did not have any biological children, though he was married three times. His marriage to Myrtle Reeves lasted the longest, from 1921 to 1937.