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Oliver Hardy’s contributions to the world of comedy continue to be celebrated today. His talent, comedic timing, and on-screen presence have left an indelible mark on the history of entertainment.
In today’s article, we will look into his biography and his cause of death.
Oliver Hardy Biography
Oliver Norvell Hardy, born Norvell Hardy on January 18, 1892, was an American comic actor who is best known as one-half of the legendary comedy duo Laurel and Hardy.
Their partnership dates back to the silent film period and lasted from 1926 to 1957. 107 shorts, features, and cameo parts with Stan Laurel, his comic partner, were played by Hardy.
He developed a reputation as a funny and skilled performer throughout the course of his career, making a significant contribution to the comedy industry.
Hardy was born to Oliver and Emily Norvell in Harlem, Georgia. His father, a former soldier in the Confederate States Army, helped his father handle the cotton plantation owned by the family.
Oliver’s older brother Sam drowned in the Oconee River when he was a young toddler, leaving Hardy’s early life scarred by sadness. Despite his struggles, Hardy showed an early interest in theatre and music.
In order to pursue his love of singing, he joined a theatre organisation and even escaped from a boarding school. His mother sent him to Atlanta to study music and voice with renowned singing instructor Adolf Dahm-Petersen after realising his talent.
Hardy temporarily enrolled in the University of Georgia in 1912 to study law, but his passion for football caused him to choose the game over his coursework. He didn’t pursue a formal education, but he was always passionate about performing.
In 1914, Hardy’s debut picture, “Outwitting Dad,” for which he received credit launched his career in the entertainment sector. Before working with producer Hal Roach, he was credited on screen as “Babe Hardy” in the majority of his silent pictures.
However, his career didn’t really take off until he teamed up with Stan Laurel.
In 1927, Hardy and Laurel started collaborating, sharing the spotlight in films like “Slipping Wives” and “Duck Soup.” Their humorous chemistry won over audiences right away, resulting in a fruitful partnership and a number of well-received films.
The legendary films “The Battle of the Century” and “The Music Box,” which won them the Academy Award for Best Short Film, are among the many works that Laurel and Hardy made.
Hardy divorced his first spouse in 1939 and then wed Virginia Lucille Jones. Laurel and Hardy continued to collaborate on films and perform together despite some contractual concerns.
At the age of 65, Oliver Hardy passed away on August 7, 1957. His remains were cremated, and they were buried in North Hollywood’s Masonic Garden at Valhalla Memorial Park Cemetery.
Stan Laurel was devastated by his passing since he had lost his beloved buddy and companion.
He will always be known as one half of the famous comedy team Laurel and Hardy, who delighted audiences everywhere with their antics.
Oliver Hardy’s Cause Of Death
Oliver Hardy’s cause of death is reported to have been due to cerebral thrombosis which led him into going into a coma and eventually dying.
Oliver also suffered from a stroke on multiple occasions and eventually gave up a ghost on August 7, 1957, at age 65.
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