Ivan Owen, a celebrated and accomplished children's entertainer, came into this world on August 19, 1927, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey that would ultimately lead to his association with the iconic British character, Basil Brush, a truculent and bouncy fox puppet.
Owen's illustrious journey in the entertainment industry commenced in the 1950s, marked by his initial foray into repertory theatre, where he honed his craft alongside a talented ensemble of actors. Concurrently, he took on the role of assistant floor manager for the British Broadcasting Corporation, acquiring invaluable experience in the technical aspects of television production.
As his career progressed, Owen's creative inclinations led him to explore the realm of puppetry, where he brought his distinctive voice to the forefront, providing vocalizations for the esteemed puppet theatre run by the visionary John Wright in the heart of Camden Town. It was during this period that he had the privilege of collaborating with the ingenious Peter Firmin, who masterfully crafted the beloved Basil puppet and went on to develop the character's television show, a testament to the enduring power of creative synergy.
Basil Brush, the beloved British puppet, made his television debut in 1963 on the popular program "The Three Scampies", captivating audiences nationwide and propelling Owen, the talented creator, to a remarkable status of millionaire.
Owen's professional life was marked by an unwavering dedication to discretion, as he consistently shunned the spotlight, declining requests for photographs and interviews. In fact, he was so averse to publicity that he rarely spoke about himself, preferring to keep a low profile. Despite his reluctance to seek the limelight, Owen's most notable creation, Basil Brush, a charismatic and endearing puppet, went on to captivate audiences across British entertainment, gracing numerous television programs and stage productions with its presence.
Ivan Owen, a life well-lived, came to a close on October 17, 2000, as his mortal coil was shed at the ripe age of 73. As the curtain fell on his remarkable journey, he left behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with his devoted wife, Jennifer, and their three beloved children: Michael, Jonathan, and Christine.
