All about Harpo Marx

Harpo was born Adolph Marx on November 23, 1888. He joined the family act because his mother was looking to add to it just when Harpo had become unemployed. Harpo began to develop the pantomime for which he eventually became so well known, but his roles in their sketches involved speaking, until he read one review. The review complimented Harpo's excellent and hilarious pantomime style, but claimed the effect was completely spoiled when he spoke. Harpo realized he couldn't outtalk Groucho or Chico, and shouldn't even try. He never spoke another word on stage or in front of a camera, as a Marx Brother. Harpo's nickname came from the harp that he had worked into his act, and that he played in nearly every film.

In 1949, Harpo wanted to make a solo film, like Groucho had with Copacabana. He devised the film Love Happy as a starring vehicle for himself, but when Chico was short on money and looking to take part, Harpo brought his brother in. Then the studio insisted that Groucho be included so they could sell it as a Marx Brothers movie. The film did poorly, because it was neither a full-fledged Marx Brothers film, nor a good picture by any standard. It is most notable because it includes Marilyn Monroe in an early bit part. Harpo did occasional television appearances throughout the 1950s. He died following heart surgery on September 28, 1964.

Filmography:

Unknown Marx Brothers, The (1993) (TV) (archive footage)

MGM's Big Parade of Comedy (1964)
... aka Big Parade of Comedy, The (1964)

Story of Mankind, The (1957) .... Sir Isaac Newton

Love Happy (1950) .... Harpo

Night in Casablanca, A (1946) .... Rusty

All-Star Bond Rally, The (1945) .... Himself

Stage Door Canteen (1943) .... Stage Door Canteen Star

Big Store, The (1941) .... Wacky

Go West (1940) .... Rusty Panello
... aka Marx Brothers Go West (1940)

At the Circus (1939) .... Punchy
... aka Marx Brothers at the Circus, The (1939)

Room Service (1938) .... Faker Englund

Day at the Races, A (1937) .... Stuffy

Fiesta de Santa Barbara, La (1935) (uncredited) .... Himself

Night at the Opera, A (1935) .... Tomasso

Duck Soup (1933) .... Pinky

Horse Feathers (1932) .... Pinky

Monkey Business (1931) .... A Stowaway

Jackie Cooper's Birthday Party (1931)

Animal Crackers (1930) .... The Professor

Cocoanuts, The (1929) .... Harpo

Too Many Kisses (1925) .... The Village Peter Pan