To millions of fans, Benny Hill was the funniest man in the world. His shows sold to over 140 countries around the world, and his audience could be counted in billions.


Born in a small town on Britain's south coast, his childhood dream was to be the star of the show like his childhood hero Charlie Chaplin. It was a dream that became an obsession as his every waking hour was devoted to his comedy.

Comedy made Benny rich. Yet he had no use for the trappings of success. He never owned a house or a car. His most treasured possessions were his television and videos.

Twice rejected by the women he proposed to, he never married. He died alone watching television in the apartment he'd rented to be near his beloved studios. He was 68.