Introduction
When you think of The Three Stooges, Moe, Larry, and Curly come to mind. However, did you know there was a fourth stooge named Shemp Howard? Many people have never heard of him, but Shemp was an integral part of the original trio in the early years. He left the group to pursue a solo career, but eventually returned to the trio, replacing his brother Curly. Shemp may not be as well-known as his fellow stooges, but his contributions to the comedy industry were significant and should not be forgotten.
Early Life and Career
Shemp was born on March 11, 1895, in Brooklyn, New York. His real name was Samuel Horwitz, and he was the older brother of Moe and Curly Howard. Shemp began his career in entertainment as a vaudeville performer, where he gained experience in physical comedy and slapstick humor. He later joined a group called Ted Healy and His Stooges, where he was partnered with Moe and Larry.
The Original Trio
Shemp’s role in the original trio was as the wise-cracker, often delivering witty one-liners and sarcastic comments. He had a unique comedic style that set him apart from his brothers. Shemp was also known for his signature move, the “double take,” where he would do a double-take to the camera after being hit or insulted. He left the trio in 1932 to pursue a solo career, but he rejoined the group in 1946, replacing his brother Curly.
Solo Career
Shemp’s solo career was successful, and he appeared in many films and shorts, including “Soup to Nuts” and “Mr. Cinderella.” He also worked as a voice actor, lending his voice to animated characters such as Popeye and Bluto. However, Shemp’s heart was always with his brothers, and he eventually returned to the Stooges, where he stayed until his death in 1955.
The Forgotten Stooge
Despite his contributions to the Stooges, Shemp is often overlooked in favor of his more famous brothers. However, Shemp was a talented comedian who brought his unique style to the group. He was fearless when it came to physical comedy, often taking hits and falls that other comedians wouldn’t attempt. Shemp’s comedic talent should be remembered and celebrated.
Legacy
Shemp’s legacy lives on through his work with the Stooges. He was an integral part of the group, and his contributions cannot be ignored. Shemp’s comedic style influenced many comedians that came after him, and his influence can be seen in the work of comedians such as Jim Carrey and Eddie Murphy. Shemp may be gone, but his impact on comedy lives on.
FAQs
1) Who was Shemp Howard?
Shemp Howard was a comedian and actor who was a part of the original trio of The Three Stooges. He was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1895 and began his career in entertainment as a vaudeville performer.
2) What was Shemp Howard’s role in the Stooges?
Shemp’s role in the Stooges was as the wise-cracker, often delivering witty one-liners and sarcastic comments. He had a unique comedic style that set him apart from his brothers.
3) Why did Shemp leave the Stooges?
Shemp left the Stooges in 1932 to pursue a solo career. He appeared in many films and shorts, including “Soup to Nuts” and “Mr. Cinderella.”
4) When did Shemp return to the Stooges?
Shemp returned to the Stooges in 1946, replacing his brother Curly.
5) What was Shemp Howard’s signature move?
Shemp’s signature move was the “double take,” where he would do a double-take to the camera after being hit or insulted.
6) What was Shemp Howard’s legacy?
Shemp’s legacy lives on through his work with the Stooges. He was an integral part of the group, and his contributions cannot be ignored. Shemp’s comedic style influenced many comedians that came after him.
7) How did Shemp Howard die?
Shemp Howard died of a heart attack on November 22, 1955, at the age of 60.
Conclusion
Shemp Howard may not be as well-known as his fellow stooges, but his contributions to the comedy industry were significant and should not be forgotten. Shemp was a talented comedian who brought his unique style to the Stooges, and his influence can still be seen in the work of comedians today. We should remember Shemp’s comedic talent and celebrate his legacy.