Will Hay
(1888-1949)

comic actor and astronomer

Died aged c. 61

William Thomson Hay FRAS (6 December 1888 – 18 April 1949) was an English comedian who wrote and acted in a schoolmaster sketch that later transferred to the screen, where he also played other authority figures with comic failings. His film Oh, Mr. Porter! (1937), made by Gainsborough Pictures, is often cited as the supreme British-produced film-comedy, and in 1938 he was the third highest-grossing star in the UK. Many comedians have acknowledged him as a major influence. Hay was also a keen amateur astronomer.

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Commemorated on 3 plaques

Will Hay 1888-1949 comic actor and astronomer lived here 1927-1934

45 The Chase, Norbury, Croydon, SW16, London, United Kingdom where they lived (1927-1934)

Will Hay 1888-1949 comic actor and astronomer lived here

3 Guildford Lawn, Ramsgate, United Kingdom where they lived

Centenary Of Cinema 1996 #236

Will Hay (1888-1949) comedian and star of Oh Mr Porter and Good Morning Boys was born in the town [full inscription unknown]

Dovecot Arts Centre, Stockton-on-Tees, United Kingdom where they was born near (1888)