Arthur English, a renowned British variety comedian, earned the moniker 'The Prince of the Wide Boys' for his charismatic portrayal of a cockney 'piv' character, donning an outrageously flamboyant stage presence and a striking kipper tie.
Born in Aldershot, Hampshire, English's early life was marked by a passion for performance, and he began appearing in amateur shows at a young age. However, it wasn't until he was 30 that he turned professional, having previously served in the Army during World War II and worked as a painter and decorator after being demobilized.
In 1949, English auditioned for the prestigious Windmill Theatre in London and was subsequently put under contract for several seasons as a principal comic. His catchphrases, such as "They're laughin' at me Mum", "Sharpen up there, the quick stuff's coming", and the iconic "Play the music - open the cage!", became ingrained in British popular culture.
English's illustrious career extended to radio, where he starred alongside fellow comedians Reg Dixon and Mrs. Shufflewick (Rex Jameson) in the BBC's Variety Bandbox. He also appeared in numerous summer shows, pantomimes, and clubs throughout the UK.
In the early 1970s, English transitioned to straight acting, taking on stage, screen, and television roles. He appeared in various comic cockney parts on television, including the Comedy Playhouse series and Hugh and I (1962). In 1987, he joined fellow veterans Irene Handl and Charlie Chester in Never Say Die (1987),a comedy series set in an old people's home.
English's greatest success on television was as the lovable janitor, Mr. Harman, in the cult series Are You Being Served? (1972),a role that cemented his place in British entertainment history.
