Bob Monkhouse's Battle With Prostate CancerRobert Alan Monkhouse succumbed to prostate cancer on December 29, 2003. He had been an English entertainer and his repertoire included comedian, writer, voice actor, actor, singer, performer, author and game show host. Robert is remembered for many things, including his fondness for silent cinema for he had a great working knowledge. A talented ad-lib artist, Monkhouse became sought-after for special speaking events early in his career. He also appeared in a television advertisement for Polaroid cameras. Also talented with voice impressions he had a worthy showing for many years and finally in 1990 he appeared on "Have I Got News For You" which gave him somewhat of a comeback. In 1995 he made public appeal for his stolen joke book which had been lost or stolen. The book, which contained notes on sketches and one-liners, for which Monkhouse was most famous, was eventually returned. Though married twice and having 3 children, only his daughter Abigail survived him. His son Gary died from cerebral palsy in 1992 and his son Simon died of a heroin overdose in 2001. he was voted among the best 50 comedy acts ever by fellow comedians and comedy insiders. Interestingly, with the aid of a body double and computer technology, Monkhouse appeared posthumously on a British TV commercial promoting prostate cancer awareness for Male Cancer Awareness Week in June 2007. He appeared next to his own gravestone talking about the disease seriously, combined with a humorous side to the advert which included trademark one-liners, like "What killed me kills one man per hour in Britain. That's even more than my wife's cooking". He ended by saying "As a comedian, I've died many deaths. Prostate cancer, I don't recommend. I'd have paid good money to stay out of here. What's it worth to you?" before making his exit. The posthumous endeavor was made with full support of family and supported by poster campaigns. |