British Comedian Benny Hill Trivia Quiz

Answer: Music Hall

Benny started out working as a behind-the-scenes assistant manager for a touring revue. Following this, he performed at working men's clubs, Masonic dinners and nightclubs. These all played a part in developing his skills. However, it was his next venture into Music Hall that was the most important, as it provided an excellent platform to showcase his growing comedic talents.

Music Hall, which was a precursor of the variety show, consisted of various performing acts such as comedians, singers, and magicians. From there, he then made his first TV appearance in 1949, appearing on a BBC variety show.

Answer: Southampton

Benny came into the world in Southampton, England. His early life was shaped by a modest upbringing. His father managed a surgical appliance shop and his grandfather was a circus clown. Before rising to fame as a comedian, he worked in Woolworths, as a driver, bridge operator and drummer.

He wrote the song 'Ernie' (The Fastest Milkman in the West) based on his experience of having also worked as a milkman. After his time spent in the British Army as a mechanic and truck driver, he pursued his passion for comedy.

Answer: Charlie Chaplin

In 1997, Benny received one of the highest honours a comedian could have imagined when the legendary comedian and star of the silent movie, Charlie Chaplin, invited him to visit him at his home in Switzerland. Benny was, needless to say, thrilled by this, because Chaplin was one of his idols.

Chaplin, too, was a great fan of Benny's work. This was indeed an honour, as Chaplin very rarely extended such invitations. The two spent time together during which Chaplin is said to have shown Benny some of his private film collection.

Answer: Yakety Sax

The theme tune of The Benny Hill Show was called 'Yakety Sax'. It was composed by Boots Randolph and James Q. 'Spider' Rich, and was originally released as a saxophone instrumental in 1963. With its upbeat tempo and liveliness, it became synonymous with Benny's fast paced, slapstick comedy routines in which characters would dash around hilariously.

It was the perfect tune for accompaniment.

Answer: Alfred Hawthorn Hill

Benny Hill was born Alfred Hawthorn Hill on January 21, 1924, in Southampton, England. He began his television career in 1947 and it continued until his passing in 1992. He became a pioneer in British comedy, blending slapstick, burlesque, and clever wordplay into his performances.

He passed away aged 68 on April 20, 1992, after suffering a heart attack. His death was discovered when neighbours noticed an unusual smell coming from his apartment.

Answer: The Ed Sullivan Show

Benny appeared on 'The Ed Sullivan Show' in 1965, showcasing his talent as a comedian to the American public. His performance consisted of his trademark slapstick and physical humour, accompanied by witty wordplay, which appealed to the viewers.

One notable sketch he performed involved a Shakespearean parody, in which he blended classic literature with his unique comedic flair. This appearance helped to enhance his reputation as a global entertainer by introducing his unique comedic style to a wider audience.

Answer: It was broadcast in colour

'The Benny Hill Show' was broadcast by The BBC in black and white from its debut in 1955 until 1968. It then moved to Thames Television which was the regional division of the ITV Network. With the growing availability of colour television, this move marked a significant development in the show's production as it enhanced the visual appeal and aided in reaching even greater heights of popularity.

Answer: The Golden Rose of Montreux

Benny was awarded the prestigious Golden Rose of Montreux Award in 1971 at the Montreux Festival in Switzerland. This honour recognised his contributions to comedy, particularly through television comedy, celebrating his innovative humour with its clever wordplay and slapstick.

The award highlighted his status as a trailblazer in TV comedy and cemented his status as one of the most successful comedians of his era.

Answer: Never married

Despite being globally successful as a comedian, Benny never married. Although he proposed to two women during his lifetime, neither of these proposals led to marriage. One woman to which he proposed in 1960 was an actress named Annette Andre. She revealed that she had turned him down.

He once joked that he avoided marriage because wives dislike their husbands being funny. He appeared content in his solitude and dedicated himself solely to his career.

Answer: Mr. Chow Mein

Benny adopted the role of Mr. Chow Mein, a recurring character featured in a series of his comedy sketches. Mr. Chow Mein was a parody of a Chinese entrepreneur. These sketches often revolved around humorous misunderstandings, slapstick scenarios, exaggerated accents and over-the-top wordplay.

In one particular airport sketch, Mr. Chow Mein interacts with customs and immigration officials, leading to a series of hilarious miscommunications.