Leslie “Bob” Townes Hope (1903–2003) was a British-born American comedian who starred in more than 500 television shows and 70 movies. He is perhaps the most widely known and loved stand-up comedian in America.
Born in London, Hope moved to America when he was four. He gained stardom through vaudeville and Broadway before turning to radio, television, and films.
Hope was known for his deadpan, allusive style of comedy. In the series of memorable “Road” films (1940–62,) he memorably donned the role of a craven, incompetent man who merrily fails to become a romantic hero.
Hope was renowned for his yearly Christmas television specials from 1953 until 1994, and for his extensive visits to American army camps. His charity and humanitarian causes earned him a Congressional Gold Medal (1962) and a Presidential Medal of Freedom (1969.)
Hope published several humorous books, in addition to The Road to Hollywood (1977) and other volumes of autobiography. The Hollywood Burbank Airport in metropolitan Los Angeles is officially named in his honor.
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I love to go to Washington—if only to be near my money.
—Bob Hope
I have seen what a laugh can do. It can transform almost unbearable tears into something bearable, even hopeful.
—Bob Hope
Topics: Laughter