Spike Milligan

Date of Birth: April 16, 1918

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: February 27, 2002

Biography

Terence Alan “Spike” Milligan was born on April 16, 1918, in Ahmednagar, India. He was an Irish comedian, writer, musician, poet, playwright, soldier, and actor. Milligan is best known for his work on “The Goon Show,” a groundbreaking radio comedy series that aired on the BBC from 1951 to 1960. His surreal and anarchic sense of humor significantly influenced British comedy. Milligan’s family moved to England when he was a child, and he spent his formative years in London. During World War II, he served in the Royal Artillery. His wartime experiences, which included being wounded in action, were later recounted in a series of autobiographical books. After the war, Milligan formed a comedy group with fellow ex-servicemen, which eventually led to the creation of “The Goon Show.” The show’s success established Milligan as a leading figure in British comedy. He went on to have a prolific career, writing numerous books, poetry, and scripts, as well as appearing in various television and film roles. Milligan’s humor was often characterized by its absurdity, wit, and satirical edge. Despite struggling with mental health issues throughout his life, including bipolar disorder, he remained a beloved and influential figure in comedy until his death.

5 Interesting Facts about Spike Milligan

1. Spike Milligan was awarded an honorary knighthood in 2001 but was not entitled to use the title ‘Sir’ because he held Irish citizenship.

2. He was a prolific writer, penning more than 80 books, including children’s stories, poetry, and war memoirs.

3. Milligan was a passionate environmentalist and campaigned for various environmental causes throughout his life.

4. He famously had a longstanding feud with Prince Charles, jokingly referring to him as a “grovelling little bastard” during a televised awards show, although they later reconciled.

5. Milligan’s gravestone bears the epitaph, “I told you I was ill,” in Gaelic.