Bob Hope

Bob Hope 1969 Publicity Photo

HopewithGroupMeetsPattonWW2

Bob Hope

Bob Hope in The Ghost Breakers trailer

Bob Hope, Bing Crosby and Dorothy Lamour in Road to Bali

Bob Hope and Bing Crosby in Road to Bali

American comedian, actor, singer, and dancer (1903–2003)

Bob Hope (born Leslie Townes Hope; May 29, 1903 – July 27, 2003) was a British-American comedian, actor, singer, dancer, author, and athlete. With a career that spanned nearly 80 years, Hope appeared in over 70 short and feature films, including a series of "Road" movies co-starring Bing Crosby and Dorothy Lamour. He was known for his rapid-fire delivery of jokes and his ability to entertain troops during World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the Gulf War.

Early Life

Hope was born in Eltham, London, England, to William Henry Hope, a stonemason, and Avis Townes, a light opera singer. The family emigrated to the United States in 1908, settling in Cleveland, Ohio. Hope became a naturalized American citizen in 1920.

Career

Vaudeville and Broadway

Hope began his career in vaudeville in the early 1920s, performing in various acts and honing his comedic skills. He transitioned to Broadway in the 1930s, where he gained recognition for his performances in shows such as Roberta and Ziegfeld Follies.

Film and Radio

Hope's film career took off with the release of The Big Broadcast of 1938, in which he introduced the song "Thanks for the Memory", which became his signature tune. He starred in a series of successful films, including the "Road" series with Bing Crosby and Dorothy Lamour. Hope also had a successful radio career, hosting The Pepsodent Show from 1938 to 1948.

Television

Hope was a pioneer in early television, hosting numerous specials and variety shows. His annual Bob Hope Christmas Specials were a staple of American television for decades.

USO Tours

Hope is perhaps best known for his work with the United Service Organizations (USO), entertaining American troops overseas. He made 57 tours for the USO between 1941 and 1991, earning him the nickname "America's No. 1 Soldier in Greasepaint."

Personal Life

Hope married singer Dolores Reade in 1934, and they remained together until his death. The couple adopted four children. Hope was an avid golfer and owned several properties, including a home in Palm Springs, California.

Legacy

Hope received numerous awards and honors throughout his career, including five honorary Academy Awards, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and the Congressional Gold Medal. He was also inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame and the Television Hall of Fame.

Related Pages

• Bing Crosby
• Dorothy Lamour
• United Service Organizations
• The Pepsodent Show
• Bob Hope Christmas Special
• Road to... (film series)

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