Description:

Stan Laurel
Santa Monica, Ca, December 24, 1955
Stan Laurel Reflects on "Babe" Hardy & Plan "to make some new pictures," Rare Postscript from Ida Laurel!
TLS

Typed Letter Signed (TLS) by Stan Laurel (1890–1965) as "Stan," dated December 24, 1955, written on official "Laurel and Hardy Feature Productions" letterhead, with an additional handwritten postscript by his wife, Ida Laurel. The letter references Laurel's recovery from a stroke and Oliver "Babe" Hardy's heart-related health issues, noting that they were preparing to make new pictures at their old studio (Hal Roach) before Laurel's medical setback forced postponement of the planned production. Typed in blue ink on two folded sheets bearing the illustrated Laurel and Hardy logo at top center. The letterhead lists corporate officers: "Stan Laurel, President; Oliver Hardy, Vice President; Benj. W. Shipman, Secretary," along with the business address. In fine condition. Measures 8.25" x 11".

Full typed text reads:

"My Dear Jeanette & Lawrie:-

Thanks so much for your very welcome letter of the 19th.inst. it was indeed nice to hear from you after so long, enjoyed all the news about yourselves. It must be going on two years since we saw you last – doesn't time fly.!

Sorry to hear the puppy died, he probably couldn't stand the lousey Butterworth circuit, or maybe he was mad they didn't make him a WATER RAT.!

Interesting to hear the Newman's had opened a confectioners shop, I imagine that should be a very good business – hope they do well. Was pleased to note Jimmy Elliot has a nice steady job, he's certainly better off, am sure he will be much happier.

Both Babe & I have been on the sick list for several months. On account of heart trouble Babe had to go on a strict diet to reduce his weight – lost about eight stone. Then to make matters worse, I had a slight stroke (left arm & leg paralyzed) & was in hospital several weeks for treatment. However pleased to tell you I made a wonderful recovery & am nearly back to normal again thank God. I was very lucky indeed. We were preparing to make some new pictures at our old studio (Hal Roach) when this thing happened, so the deal had to be postponed till I am in shape again – the Dr. figures I will be OK by April & will be fully able to continue.

I had a letter a while ago from Marie Cingalee, Claude had been in hospital for several months at Blackpool – didn't say what the trouble was, but understand he's out & around again. Also Roy Lester married Pauline & she has had a baby – guess you heard about that.

Sorry you had to have an operation, must have been very painful, hope its much better by now. Isn't it awful, all the things we have to go through?.

Do you ever hear of Dorothy McKenzie Reid? I get the "Performer" every week, but never see her name in the calls – wonder if she left the bus, too.

No, I doubt we shall ever come over again, I was very fed up on the last trip & was happy to get away, the Variety Bus. has certainly deteriorated.

[Page 2:]

You sure have had a lot of enjoyment out of the caravan, it was a wonderful investment – must have paid for itself over & over again. The weather here in Southern California has been lovely, but we are expecting some heavy rain soon, due to the weather conditions up North. Am enclosing you a piece of this mornings paper, its really a bad situation – understand about 800 homes floated away & many Towns have been evacuated entirely – thats a hell of a Xmas present poor devils.

Well, all for now. Eda joins in every good wish for a very Merry Xmas & Happy Prosperous '56, lots of good health & happiness – will drink to you both to-night.

Good luck & God Bless.

Sincerely always:-
Stan

Lawrie's painting hangs in our hallway, so we often think lovingly of you. Bye."

Handwritten postscript by Ida Laurel reads:

"Happy New Year – Jeanette and Lawrie!

Thanks for your nice letter darling, it is very sweet of you to remember us. I wish you were here and we could play a poker… Well this time I will not write much – but all the news will be in the next letter. OK? Please, write soon again. Remember me to all friends.

Lots of Love – Ida."

Stan Laurel, one half of the legendary comedy duo Laurel and Hardy, wrote this deeply personal letter during a transitional and physically challenging period in his life. By 1955, Laurel and Oliver "Babe" Hardy had largely retired from active filmmaking, though discussions of possible new productions occasionally surfaced, including potential work again at the Hal Roach Studios where their greatest successes were made.

The letter references Hardy's declining health due to heart trouble and Laurel's own recovery from a stroke that temporarily paralyzed his left side. Hardy would suffer a debilitating stroke in 1956 and pass away in 1957, making this correspondence particularly significant as one of the later personal accounts referencing both men's health struggles.

Laurel's candid remarks about the "Variety Bus" tours reflect the grueling post-war stage appearances the duo undertook across the United Kingdom and Europe, which had taken a toll physically and emotionally. The mention of Hal Roach further ties this letter to the golden era of Hollywood comedy production.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 8.25" x 11"
  • Medium: TLS

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