Leslie Henson(1891-1957)

Leslie Henson, comedian born in London in 1891. Famous for his bulging eyes, malleable face and raspy voice. He studied with 'the Cairns James School of Musical and Dramatic Art as a child, he was writing and producing theatrical pieces while still at school. Became popular in Music Hall from 1910, his first West End role in 1912 was 'Nicely, Thanks!' and became a over-night star, also in 'Tonight's the Night' which became a smash-hit in 1915 followed by starring in several hit West End musical comedies including 'Yes, Uncle! in 1917. Served in the Royal Flying Corps during World War I, after the war he returned to the West End playing in 'Kissing Time in 1919 and a series of musical comedies and farces throughout the 1920s and 1930s. Leslie starred in at least 15 movies, the first of which was 'The Lifeguardsman' for the British Actors Film Company in 1916, most notable was 'Alf's Button' co-starring Alma Taylor in 1920 and 'Tons of Money' in 1924, also starred in a number of talkies, best known 'A Warm Corner' in 1930 and It's a Boy' in 1934, last seen on T.V. in the late 1950s. Co-founder of ENSA. Died in London in 1957 age 66.