Leonard Lowe, one of the most talented brothers in the history of comedy, was born in Fulham, London, in 1915. His parents, who were both stage performers, destined him for a career in the arts. Lowe began his career at a young age, appearing in various stage productions, including a production of "Peter Pan" and the original production of "Cavalcade" at Drury Lane.
Lowe's breakthrough came when he joined Robert Atkins' Open Air Theatre in Regent's Park, where he stayed for two seasons, performing in Shakespeare plays and the popular musical "White Horse Inn" at the London Coliseum. His good singing voice and guitar skills made him a valuable addition to the company.
In 1935, Lowe joined Jack Hylton's dance orchestra as a guitarist and singer, making his grown-up West End debut in Hylton's star-studded variety spectacular "Life Begins at Oxford Circus" at the London Palladium. He was only 19 years old at the time.
Lowe's success with Hylton led to a tour of the United States, where he was considered very lucky to be able to perform in Chicago, despite the American Musicians' Union objecting to Hylton's full band.
In 1938, Lowe teamed up with his brother Bill to form the double act Len and Bill Lowe. They were one of the first smart double acts, with both brothers dressed in fashion and without the usual baggy trousers and make-up. They were successful on the variety circuit, appearing in shows such as "Peter Pan" and "Cavalcade".
After the war, the Lowe brothers began to appear on radio, raising the laughs in shows such as "Henry Hall's Guest Night" and "Variety Bandbox". They also appeared in a few British films, including "Date with a Dream" and "Melody Club".
In 1950, the Lowe brothers split up, with Bill marrying his co-star Jean Carson. Len continued to work in comedy, forming a partnership with his other brother Don, now known as Chester Ladd. They made a successful tour of Australia and New Zealand, and later appeared in several summer shows.
In the 1950s, Lowe began to work in television, appearing in shows such as "The Dickie Henderson Half Hour" and "What a Life". He also co-starred with his brother Don in the TV series "Kindly Leave the Stage", which revived many of the old-time variety gags and sketches.
Lowe continued to work in comedy until his death, appearing in shows such as "The Basil Brush Show" and "Carry On Loving". He was also a member of the Grand Order of Water Rats, a show-business charity, and appeared in their 1984 special "Century of Stars".
Lowe's last London stage appearance was in the production "Windy City" at the Victoria Palace. He was survived by his wife and two sons.
