Born Name:  Adolph Marx

Born Date:  November 23, 1888

Born Place:  New York City, New York

Died Date:  September 28, 1964

Died Place:  Los Angeles, California

Occupations:  Comedian, actor, mime artist, harpist

Brief Biography:  Harpo Marx was best known as the silent, curly-wigged member of the Marx Brothers. In stark contrast to his brothers' rapid-fire banter, he masterfully relied on slapstick, props, and facial expressions, while also being an accomplished, self-taught harpist.

Early Life & Vaudeville:
Born in New York City to a family of Jewish immigrants, Harpo grew up in a lively household. He began his entertainment career alongside his brothers—Groucho, Chico, Gummo, and Zeppo—in vaudeville. Harpo's "silent" persona was born out of a critical review; a theater critic once wrote that his performance in a spoken role ruined an otherwise beautiful pantomime. Taking this to heart, Harpo remained completely mute in all his performances, instead communicating through honks, whistles, and exaggerated body language.

The Marx Brothers Era:
Harpo's comedic stylings were heavily influenced by classic clowning and mime. On screen, he was a chaotic force of nature—famously chasing women, relentlessly honking his bulbhorn, and gleefully causing property damage. However, he also possessed a beautiful musical gift. He taught himself to play the harp by mimicking a picture of an angel he saw in a second-hand store window. Almost every Marx Brothers film featured a touching, virtuoso harp solo by Harpo.

Personal Life & Legacy:
Offscreen, Harpo was famously kind, witty, and deeply devoted to his family. He chronicled his colorful life in his 1961 autobiography, Harpo Speaks!