National Treasures: Tommy Cooper

Tommy Cooper (19 March 1921 – 15 April 1984) was a hugely popular stand up comedian and magician. The legendary showman was born in Caerphilly, Wales, moving to Exeter at the age of three.

Instantly recognisable by his red fez, Cooper starred in his own shows, and his famous two-line jokes and one liners, known as ‘Cooperisms’, are still some of the best loved jokes in the UK.

On 15 April 1984, Cooper collapsed midway through his act on the show ‘Live From Her Majesty’s.’ It was unsure initially due to the slapstick nature of his routine, whether this was part of his act, however he later died in hospital.

The wonderful Tommy Copper is a hero to many and a comedian’s comedian and he’ll always be remembered- just like that!

Which Tommy Cooper jokes are your favourite? Let us know below.

Image credit: Peter Denton