Larry Grayson

It's difficult to know where to begin with Larry Grayson, so in true biographical fashion I'll begin at the beginning.
His early life was quite a strange one for the time, he was born August 31st 1923, named William Sully White, William Sully being the name of the father he never met. His mother was unmarried and he was initially brought up by friends of his mother who had two daughters. His foster mother died when he was six and he was subsequently raised by the younger of the two daughters, Florence. Throughout that time his real mother regularly visited and he knew her as Aunt Ethel.
Unlike many of his contemporaries he did not join the army (due to a weak heart) but did entertain the troops as part of his early showbusiness career. By several accounts he started his career singing bawdy songs, later became a female impersonator and using the stage name Billy Breen. By 1957 he was working as Larry Grayson, taking the surname from Kathryn Grayson a star at the time and Larry being suggested by his agent. His act was soon to incorporate more stand up comedy style story telling. From touring clubs for several years and staying at various boarding houses, Grayson incorporated material he had picked up from various landladies he had stayed with.
Slack Alice, Everard, Apricot Lil, Pop-it in Pete (the postman) were amongst the inhabitants of his fictional world.
His stage career progressed steadily and blossomed in the late 60s/early 70s, his billing as "England's comedy sensation" probably helped his career move into television, guest appearances led to a series of his own, Shut That Door in 1972. The show title was one of his many catchphrases, one which apparently came from a genuine remark whilst on stage in Brighton, it got a laugh so it stayed in the act. Other catchphrases included 'look at the muck in here', 'what a gay day', 'seems like a nice boy', phrases which aren't really done justice by being written down here.
He had several TV series and was an inspired choice as host of The Generation Game replacing Bruce Forsyth. His ability to get the biggest laughs out of contestants was a joy to watch, it was never at their expense either.
His final appearance was at the Royal Variety Show in 1994 although appearing frail and slow to warm up, it was apparent that he loved being in the stage and that the audience loved having him there, he ended with "I love you" and for once you could believe that this celebrity meant it.
Larry Grayson died on 7 January 1995.
Although late to becoming a household name, he made the most of his time in the spotlight and is affectionately remembered as a unique and warm entertainer.