Oliver Hardy

Oliver Hardy Historical Marker Milledgeville, Ga

A Day at School

The Guilty Ones

Laurel and Hardy in Lucky Dog

Isn't Life Terrible01

Another fine mess 1930 poster

Oliver Hardy (born Norvell Hardy, January 18, 1892 – August 7, 1957) was an American comedy actor and one half of Laurel and Hardy, the classic double act that began in the era of silent films and lasted 25 years, from 1927 to 1951. Hardy's portly stature, impeccable timing, and expressive face made him an iconic figure in the world of comedy. His partnership with Stan Laurel, a slim Englishman, created a perfect visual and comedic contrast, leading to their status as one of the most enduring and beloved comedy teams in history.

Early Life

Oliver Hardy was born in Harlem, Georgia, and developed an early interest in music and theater. He ran away from home as a teenager to join a minstrel show, and later he sang in vaudeville theaters before moving into the movie business. Hardy's early career in film began with the Lubin Manufacturing Company in Jacksonville, Florida, where he performed various jobs before finally stepping in front of the camera.

Career

Hardy's film debut came in 1914, but it wasn't until he moved to Hollywood and started working with Hal Roach that he found his niche in comedy. It was at Roach's studio that Hardy was first paired with Stan Laurel in 1927. Although they had appeared together in a few films previously, it was the short film "Putting Pants on Philip" that marked the beginning of Laurel and Hardy as a team.

Their films, characterized by slapstick comedy and a kind of childlike helplessness in the face of an often hostile world, were immensely popular. They made over 100 films together, including shorts, feature films, and cameo appearances. Some of their most famous films include "The Music Box" (1932), which won an Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film, "Sons of the Desert" (1933), and "Way Out West" (1937).

Personal Life

Hardy was married three times. His personal life, unlike his professional one, was marked by its lack of drama. He was an avid golfer and often played with celebrity friends. Despite his size, Hardy was known to be gentle and kind, with a keen sense of humor that endeared him to many.

Later Years and Death

The partnership between Laurel and Hardy ended with Laurel's stroke in 1954. Hardy made a few television appearances after this but did not pursue acting without his partner. He suffered a major stroke in 1956 and passed away from cerebral thrombosis in 1957 in North Hollywood, California.

Legacy

Oliver Hardy's legacy, along with Stan Laurel's, is preserved through their films, which continue to entertain audiences worldwide. They are remembered not only for their contribution to the genre of slapstick comedy but also for their portrayal of friendship and loyalty. The duo has been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and in 2019, their lives and careers were depicted in the biographical film "Stan & Ollie."