Chico Marx
This article possibly contains original research. Please improve it by verifying the claims made and adding inline citations. Statements consisting only of original research should be removed. (May 2013) Chico Marx Chico Marx c. 1930 Born Leonard Marx (1887-03-22)March 22, 1887 New York City, New York, U.S. Died October 11, 1961(1961-10-11) (aged 74) Hollywood, California Cause of death Arteriosclerosis Occupation Actor, bandleader, comedian Years active 1926–1959 Spouse(s) Betty Karp (m. 1917; div. 1940) Mary De Vithas (m. 1958; his death 1961) Children 1 Leonard "Chico" Marx (March 22, 1887 – October 11, 1961) was an American comedian, bandleader, actor and film star as part of the Marx Brothers. His persona in the act was that of a charming, dim-witted albeit crafty con artist, seemingly of rural Italian origin, who wore shabby clothes, and sported a curly-haired wig and Tyrolean hat. In virtually every film that includes the main trio of the Marx Brothers, Chico is seen working with Harpo Marx, usually as partners in crime. Leonard was the oldest of the Marx Brothers, though he was not the first-born; he was preceded by Manfred Marx, who died in infancy. In addition to his work as a performer, he played an important role in the management and development of the act, at least in its early years.