Alfred Marks

Alfred Edward Marks OBE (28 January 1921 - 1 July 1996) was a celebrated comic actor and comedian, known for his vibrant performances in both theater and television.

Born Ruchel Kutchinsky in Holborn, London, Marks left school at the age of 14 to pursue a career in entertainment, beginning at the Windmill Theatre. His service in the Royal Air Force as a Flight Sergeant in the Middle East allowed him to showcase his talent by organizing concerts for fellow servicemen. In addition to his artistic pursuits, he also dabbled in auctioneering and engineering.

Marks launched his professional career in variety shows at the Kilburn Empire in 1946, later gracing the stage in renowned productions such as The Sunshine Boys and Fiddler On The Roof. He collaborated with notable figures like Peter Sellers and Harry Secombe, contributing to the early development of The Goon Show, although he did not officially join the group.

His film credits include The Frightened City and Scream and Scream Again, while his television career flourished with the successful series Alfred Marks Time, which aired for six years on ITV. He also hosted the iconic Sunday Night at the London Palladium and appeared on various shows like The Good Old Days, Parkinson, and The Two Ronnies.

In 1967, Marks toured Australia in Bill Naughton's Spring & Port Wine and starred in a musical adaptation of Daisy Ashford's The Young Visiters in 1968. His performance as Wilfred Shadbolt in The Yeomen of the Guard in 1982 further showcased his versatility.

During his time in Australia, he was humorously dubbed the second King of Moomba in 1968, reflecting his charming personality and comedic wit.