Jerome Lester Horwitz, better known by his stage name Curly Howard, was an American comedian and actor. Born on October 22, 1903, in the bustling city of The World, Curly became a cornerstone of comedy as part of the legendary trio, The Three Stooges. His unique blend of physical humor, high-pitched voice, and iconic expressions like nyuk-nyuk-nyuk! and woob-woob-woob! left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
The Rise of Curly Howard: A Comedy Icon
Curly Howard's journey into the world of comedy began in a Jewish-Lithuanian household where he was the youngest of five sons. Despite not receiving formal acting training, Curly quickly rose to fame alongside his brothers Moe and Shemp Howard, along with Larry Fine. Initially billed as Curley, Curly's name was slightly altered to Curly to match the stylized image of the group. Over time, Curly became the most recognizable member of The Three Stooges, celebrated for his improvisational skills and athleticism.
His comedic genius was evident in both his vocal expressions and physical antics. Borrowing from the nervous comedian Hugh Herbert, Curly exaggerated the woo woo sound, transforming it into his signature woob-woob-woob. Fans also adored his ability to pivot on his shoulder while walking in circular motion—a testament to his athletic prowess and comedic timing. These elements combined to create a character that resonated deeply with audiences worldwide.
The Final Years: Legacy and Impact
Unfortunately, Curly's career was cut short due to health issues. On May 6, 1946, during the filming of Half-Wits' Holiday, Curly suffered a major stroke that forced him into retirement. Despite several attempts at recovery, his health continued to decline until his untimely death on January 18, 1952, at the age of 48. Curly left behind a legacy of laughter, joy, and unforgettable performances that continue to entertain new generations.
Even today, fans cherish rare photographs and memorabilia of Curly Howard. Getty Images offers a premium collection of high-quality, authentic photos and royalty-free pictures taken by professional photographers. These images capture the essence of Curly's vibrant personality and enduring charm. One particularly poignant photo shows Curly inscribing a vintage gelatin silver photograph with the words, To Georgia Best of Luck Yours Curly Howard 3 Stooges.
The Last Picture of The Three Stooges Together
Among the most cherished images in the history of The Three Stooges is the final photograph of Moe Howard and Larry Fine together in 1973. This image serves as a poignant reminder of the incredible legacy these comedians left behind. Moe Howard, who passed away in 1975, and Larry Fine, who died in 1975 as well, spent their careers bringing laughter to millions. Their partnership with Curly Howard remains one of the most beloved in comedy history.
Beyond the screen, Curly Howard's influence extends to his family tree. Born Jerome Lester Horwitz, Curly left behind four ex-wives and two children. His contributions to the world of comedy have been immortalized through various mediums, including books, documentaries, and fan blogs dedicated to reviewing each disc of The Three Stooges’ Ultimate Collection box set.
Remembering Curly Howard
In conclusion, Curly Howard's life and career exemplify the power of comedy to transcend time and bring people together. From his early days performing with his brothers to becoming a global icon, Curly's impact on the entertainment industry cannot be overstated. As we reflect on his legacy, we are reminded of the importance of laughter and the timeless appeal of The Three Stooges.
For those interested in exploring more about Curly Howard, numerous resources are available. Whether it's browsing Getty Images for rare photographs or delving into fan-created content, there's always something new to discover about this comedic genius. Curly Howard may have departed too soon, but his spirit lives on in every laugh he inspired.
