Charles (Chic) Murray

1919 - 1985

Comedian and actor. Born in Greenock. Murray began as an apprentice in Kincaid's ship-yard at the age of 15, but was also an amateur performer, appearing for example as 'Chic and his Chicks'. His career in music hall began through his double-act with wife Maida Dickson, billed as 'The Tall Droll with the Small Doll', reflecting Maida's tiny stature. With his trade-mark 'bunnet' and absurd style of humour, Murray went on to become one of Britain's best known and most loved comedians.

Murray was also popular in theatre; he played football manager and fellow Scot Bill Shankly (1913-81) in the play You'll Never Walk Alone. Film success came with minor roles in the Bond-spoof Casino Royale (1967) and Bill Forsyth's Gregory's Girl (1981), together with the drama Saigon:Year of the Cat (1983) and the risqué and rather weak comedies What's Up Nurse! (1977) and What's Up Superdoc! (1978).

He died in Edinburgh, but his style of comedy still entertains through imitation and a tribute video Chic Murray: A World of His Own was released in 1998.

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