Bert Lahr's Legacy

Biography of Bert Lahr, Vintage Hollywood Actor

On August 13, 1895, Bert Lahr was born. His parents weren't wealthy, and the family grew up in poverty. Irving Lahrheim was his genuine name. Lahr hated school, and left in his early teens. Lahr taught himself by watching vaudeville shows. Soon after, he began crooning on the streets with a group of other young singers. Bert had a deep baritone voice. Lahr gained notoriety by playing comedic characters such a the Comic Dutchman in Burlesque houses. He was soon discovered by producer Blutch Cooper. The producer put Lahr in The Best Show in Town . Lahr was able to hone his comedic timing during this theatrical production.

Lahr's career really took off in 1927 when went to Broadway, with a part in Harry Delmar's Revels. Over the next few years, Lahr lent his comedic talents to shows such as Hot-Cha (1932), Life Begins At 8:40 (1934) and Scandals (1936). Lahr wasn't satisfied with Broadway. He needed more. Hollywood was on Bert Lahr's mind, and in 1938 he made the move.

He started off in Hollywood with roles Just Around the Corner and Zaza However, it wasn't until 1939 that Lahr landed the role of a lifetime. Lahr was cast in the Wizard of Oz, playing the Cowardly Lion. The character was perfect for Lahr's comedic instincts. The lovable Lion became a hit with audiences.

However, Lahr never really found more success in films. He turned his attention to theater, taking on some dramatic roles. He earned praise for his role on the stage as Estragon in Waiting for Godot. The play did not find much success, but Lahr was a standout and garnered praise for his work in the dramatic role.

Bert Lahr died on Dec. 4, 1967. He was 75 years old. It was almost poetic that the role he was filming at the time of his death was that of a comedian in a burlesque production.

Lahr was a frequent visitor to The Stork Club. To read more about the Stork Club and the many vintage celebs that were spotted there, visit www.storkclub.com.