Stan Laurel (born Arthur Stanley Jefferson; 16 June 1890 - 23 February 1965 in his Grandparents' house at 3 Argyle Street, Ulverston, Cumbria) was an English comic actor, writer, director and best known as one half of the comedy double act Laurel and Hardy alongside Oliver Hardy. His career stretched from the silent films of the early 20th century until after World War II. Many comedy greats such as; Dick Van Dyke, George Stephens and Fred Leedon Scott were inspired by his work
Laurel and Hardy[]
Stan went on to join the Hal Roach studios, and began a career as a director. His intention was to work primarily as a writer and director, but fate stepped in. In 1927, Oliver Hardy, then a member of the Comedy All-Star players, was injured in a kitchen mishap. Stan was asked to return to acting. Laurel and Hardy began to share the screen in Slipping Wives, Duck Soup and With Love and Hisses. The two became friends, and their comic chemistry became obvious. Roach's supervising director, Leo McCarey, noticed the audience's reaction to the pairing, and began to intentionally pair them. This led to the creation of the Laurel and Hardy series in late 1927.
After Laurel and Hardy[]
In 1961, he recived an academy award for comedy.