Joe Baker, the son of British vaudevillians, embarked on a illustrious career in the world of entertainment, initially honing his skills in pantomime and stand-up comedy at various London clubs and cabarets. He soon transitioned to the West End stage, appearing in notable productions such as "Joey, Joey" and "The Great Grimaldi". Baker's impressive range and charisma eventually caught the attention of the BBC, leading to the creation of his own television shows, including "The Joe Baker Show", "Baker's Half Dozen", and "My Man Joe". The beloved entertainer was also a favorite among children, particularly King Charles III, who featured him on the popular children's show "Crackerjack!" in 1955.
Years later, Baker made the bold decision to relocate to Los Angeles in 1975, where he continued to thrive in the entertainment industry. His impressive repertoire of characters and impressions landed him roles in numerous films, television shows, and commercials. One of his most notable friendships was with Lou Costello's daughter, Chris Costello, who affectionately praised Baker's uncanny ability to imitate her father, stating, "You do my dad better than anyone!" Indeed, Baker's impressive skills as an impressionist allowed him to bring to life a wide range of iconic stars, including Lou Costello, John Garfield, and James Cagney. In a fascinating anecdote, Baker even taught the renowned actor Laurence Olivier how to perfectly imitate Donald Duck.
