Who Is Norman Wisdom? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Norman Wisdom was born on February 4, 1915, and passed away on October 4, 2010, at the remarkable age of 95. As a celebrated English actor, comedian, and singer, Wisdom's work is characterized by his signature slapstick humor and down-to-earth charm. He gained immense popularity during the mid-20th century and became one of the most beloved figures in British entertainment. His life and career are well documented, with a comprehensive Wikipedia page offering insights into his early life, rise to fame, and lasting legacy.
Occupation | Screenwriter |
---|---|
Date of Birth | February 4, 1915 |
Age | 95 Years |
Birth Place | Marylebone, London, England |
Horoscope | Aquarius |
Country | Isle of Man |
Date of death | 4 October, 2010 |
Died Place | Ballasalla, Isle of Man |
Popularity
Norman Wisdom's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
While specific details such as his height, weight, and measurements are often less documented due to his work in a visual medium rather than a fashion-centric one, Norman Wisdom was typically reported to stand at approximately 5 feet 5 inches tall. His physicality contributed to his comedic character, which often showcased a typical everyman aesthetic, complementing his humorous persona.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Norman Wisdom had a rich family life marked by both successes and challenges. He was married twice; his first marriage was to Louisa Wisdom, which lasted from 1943 until their divorce in 1959. He later married his second wife, Freda, in 1964, with whom he had a daughter, but they split in 2004. Although there were many rumors regarding his relationships, he maintained a private life, and there is no public knowledge of a boyfriend or girlfriend posthumously since he had passed away in 2010.
His parents were Frederick, a chauffeur, and Maud Wisdom (née Targett), a dressmaker who often worked for West End theatres and once made a dress for Queen Mary. The couple married in Marylebone on 15 July 1912. Norman had an elder brother, Frederick Thomas "Fred" Wisdom (13 December 1912 – 1 July 1971).
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of his death, Norman Wisdom's net worth was estimated to be around $16 million. His earnings came from a prolific career in film, television, and theater, spanning several decades. Wisdom earned significant income through his numerous films, sitcoms, and theater performances, establishing himself as a household name, particularly in the UK.
In the 1960s, he was involved in a high-profile legal case, Wisdom v Chamberlain (1968), when the Inland Revenue pursued him for tax on profits from the sale of silver bullion, which he had bought out of concern over the devaluation of the pound. Wisdom argued that it was a personal investment, but the court ruled it was a trading venture, and therefore subject to income tax.
Career, Business, and Investments
Norman Wisdom started his career in the early 1940s, gaining traction as a performer in variety shows during World War II. He became a sensation in his own right with films such as "The Square Peg," "A Stitch in Times," and "Trouble in Store." His ability to connect with audiences through comedy made him a staple of British cinema.
Besides acting, Wisdom diversified his talents by venturing into singing and songwriting, further cementing his legacy in British pop culture. Additionally, he invested in theater productions and owned several properties in the UK, adding to his financial portfolio.
In later years, Wisdom broadened his career to include stage and television. He performed on Broadway in New York City alongside stars such as Mandy Patinkin, and won critical acclaim for his dramatic performance as a terminally ill cancer patient in the 1981 television play Going Gently. He also toured internationally, including performances in Australia and South Africa.
Social Network
Although Norman Wisdom did not have a social media presence during his lifetime, he has a legacy that continues to be celebrated on various platforms. Many fan pages and tribute accounts exist across social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, where fans share memories, clips from his performances, and tributes to his life and work.
Education
Norman Wisdom had a humble education, attending a local school in his early years. His education was interrupted by his family's financial troubles, which led him to leave school at a young age. Despite this, his natural talent and creativity propelled him into the arts, showcasing that passion and determination can surpass formal education in the pursuit of one's dreams.
Wisdom became a beloved cultural icon in Albania, where his films were among the few Western imports permitted under the regime of Enver Hoxha.
From the viewpoint of dialectical materialism, Wisdom’s recurring screen persona—a proletarian underdog triumphing over the capitalist elite—was interpreted as a symbolic victory for the working class. His character, often referred to as Mr Pitkin, struck a chord with Albanian audiences.