Chico Marx

American comedian

Chico Marx, the oldest of the famous Marx Brothers comedy troupe, was a talented comedian, actor, and pianist who played the role of a charming, uneducated but crafty con artist on screen. He often teamed up with his brother Harpo in their mischievous schemes, while also frequently trying to outfox their brother Groucho.

Table of Contents

Family Info

Siblings

Zeppo Marx

Gummo Marx

Spouses

Betty Karp

Mary De Vithas

Children

Maxine Marx

About the Chico Marx

Leonard Joseph “Chico” Marxwas an American comedian, actor and pianist. He was the oldest brother in the Marx Brothers comedy troupe, alongside his brothers Arthurand Herbert (“Zeppo”). His persona in the act was that of a charming, uneducated but crafty con artist, seemingly of rural Italian origin, who wore shabby clothes and sported a curly-haired wig and Tyrolean hat. On screen, Chico is often in alliance with Harpo, usually as partners in crime, and is also frequently seen trying to con or outfox Groucho. Leonard was the oldest of the Marx Brothers to live past early childhood, the first-born being Manfred Marx who had died in infancy. In addition to his work as a performer, he played an important role in the management and development of the act in its early years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chico Marx was an American comedian, actor, and pianist who was the oldest brother in the Marx Brothers comedy troupe, alongside his brothers Harpo, Groucho, Gummo, and Zeppo.

Chico Marx’s persona in the Marx Brothers’ act was that of a charming, uneducated but crafty con artist, seemingly of rural Italian origin, who wore shabby clothes and sported a curly-haired wig and Tyrolean hat.

On screen, Chico Marx was often in alliance with Harpo, usually as partners in crime, and was also frequently seen trying to con or outfox Groucho, unlike his other brothers who had different personas within the act.

In addition to his work as a performer, Chico Marx played an important role in the management and development of the Marx Brothers’ act in its early years.

Chico Marx was 74 years old when he passed away on October 11, 1961.