Ray Cooney

Raymond George Alfred Cooney, born on May 30, 1932, is an esteemed English playwright, actor, and director renowned for his contributions to the world of comedy. His most celebrated work, *Run for Your Wife*, debuted in 1983 and holds the record as the longest-running comedy in London's West End, enjoying a remarkable nine-year run. Throughout his career, Cooney has seen 17 of his plays staged in this iconic venue.

Cooney's acting journey commenced in 1946, and he became a familiar face in the Whitehall farces of Brian Rix during the 1950s and 1960s. This period also marked his foray into playwriting with his first work, *One For The Pot*. Collaborating with Tony Hilton, he co-wrote the screenplay for the 1961 comedy film *What a Carve Up!*, featuring the likes of Sid James and Kenneth Connor.

Between 1968 and 1969, Cooney adapted Richard Gordon's Doctor series for BBC radio, starring Richard Briers and also taking on roles himself. His television and film appearances include the adaptation of his own farce, *Not Now, Darling* (1973), co-written with John Chapman.

In 1983, he founded the Theatre of Comedy Company, producing over twenty works including *Pygmalion* with stars like Peter O'Toole. He co-created *Tom, Dick and Harry* (1993) with his son Michael, and directed the film adaptation of *Run for Your Wife* in 2012, although it received poor reviews. Cooney's farces are characterized by their intricate plotting and comedic misunderstandings, earning him the affectionate title of "Le Feydeau Anglais" in France. Acknowledged for his contributions to drama, he was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 2005. Cooney has been married to Linda Dixon since 1962, and