| Max Miller | |
|---|---|
&sq=Qlik&lang=&file=File:Max_Miller_statue.JPG) Bronze statue of Miller at the Pavilion Gardens, Brighton | |
| Birth name | Thomas Henry Sargent |
| Born | 21 November 1894 Kemptown, Brighton, England |
| Died | 7 May 1963 (aged 68) Brighton, England |
| Resting place | Downs Crematorium, Brighton, England |
| Genres | Blue comedy |
| Spouse |
Kathleen Marsh (m. 1921) |
| Website | maxmiller.org |
Thomas Henry Sargent (21 November 1894 – 7 May 1963), known professionally by his stage name Max Miller and billed as The Cheeky Chappie, was an English comedian often considered the greatest stand-up of his generation.[1] He came from humble beginnings and left school at the age of twelve. At the outbreak of the First World War, he volunteered for the army. During his time in the forces, he started a troupe concert party. On leaving the army, he took up work as a light comedian, dancer, and singer. He toured extensively, appearing in variety, revues and by the early 1930s reached the top of the bill in the large music halls including the London Palladium.
He recorded many songs, some of which he wrote. He appeared frequently on radio and starred in fourteen feature films. He was known for his flamboyant suits, his wicked charm, and his risqué jokes often led to difficulties with the censors. He made his last recording in January 1963 and died four months later.
- ^ The Oxford Dictionary of National Biography, Vol. 38. Oxford University Press. 2004. pp. 215–216. ISBN 0-19-861388-1.