Stanley Baxter: Scottish comedian with a gift for sketches, mimicry and song

Stanley Baxter: Scottish comedian with a gift for sketches, mimicry and song

Stanley Baxter was a towering figure in British television for much of the mid-20th century, widely celebrated for his exceptional skills in comedy sketches, mimicry, and song. His work during the 1970s and 80s, often backed by substantial production budgets, won him a devoted audience and made his shows a fixture on both ITV and the BBC. However, as television trends evolved, Baxter found his opportunities diminishing, and after being removed twice from his key broadcasting slots, he withdrew from the medium that had secured his fame. Having recently passed away at the age of 99, Baxter remains a cherished memory for older generations who recall his ability to unite millions through shared humour and cultural references.

Born in Glasgow in 1926, Baxter’s early interest in theatre was nurtured by his mother, Bessie, who encouraged his inclinations toward impressions and singing. Although his father was a reserved insurance executive, it was Bessie’s vibrant personality that left a lasting impact on both Stanley and his younger sister, Alice Dale, who later pursued a career in acting and writing in Australia. Reflecting on his motivation to entertain, Baxter once remarked, “I probably became an entertainer to please mother,” highlighting how her forthright nature propelled him forward despite his own more introverted tendencies. His professional debut occurred at the young age of 14 on the Scottish version of the BBC’s Children’s Hour.

World events temporarily interrupted Baxter’s early career

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