Dave King, a renowned British comedian, singer, and actor, achieved unparalleled success in the 1950s and early 1960s. His remarkable talent earned him top billing at the prestigious London Palladium, as well as numerous hit TV shows in both Britain and America. Although his career as a comedian was relatively short-lived, he later became a respected and accomplished actor in both television and film.
After completing his National Service in the Royal Air Force, King joined "Morton Fraser and his Harmonica Gang," an eccentric variety act inspired by America's Borrah Minevitch and His Harmonica Rascals. As he honed his skills, King soon turned solo, adopting a laid-back style and a singing voice reminiscent of Perry Como.
By the mid-1950s, King had established himself as a versatile performer, making regular appearances on TV variety shows. In 1955, he was awarded his own show by the BBC, which was scripted by top writers and considered groundbreaking in its innovative approach. King's impressive timing and comedic genius made his show a huge success.
Some of his notable recording hits include "Memories Are Made of This" (1956),as well as numerous cover versions of Dean Martin and Perry Como songs. In 1958, King was poached from the BBC by ITV, who gave him his own show. The following year, he hosted the famous Kraft Music Hall Show in America, replacing the legendary Milton Berle.
In 1961, King appeared on The Bing Crosby Show in Britain, and a year later, he made a cameo appearance as himself in the film The Road to Hong Kong (1962). Although his fame in America was short-lived, King returned to Britain in the late 1960s, where he began an acting career.
Throughout the 1970s, King delivered a series of highly polished and gritty performances in various TV dramas, often cast as a villain. In 1978, he was cast against type in Dennis Potter's Pennies from Heaven (1978),showcasing his versatility as an actor.
