Humanitarian of the Week: Ken Dodd, OBE

Ken Dodd
Photo: The Punch & Judy Fellowship

Liverpool-born Ken Dodd may not be well-known in the U.S. though in the 1960’s, his fame in Britain rivaled that of the Beatles. Dodd is a beloved British comedian, celebrated for his lengthy performances delivered in the style of Nineteenth Century musical halls. His act combines song, dance and comedic business. One of Dodd’s performances from the 1960s, in fact, earned him a place in the Guinness Book of World Records for the most jokes told (1500 over three and a half hours) in one performance.

Known for his shock of wild hair and prominent teeth, Dodd embodies comedy and tries to bring joy wherever he goes. As part of this, Dodd is a celebrity patron of the Punch & Judy Fellowship and does his part to ensure that Mr. Punch and his friends and family will be able to continue their antics for centuries to come.

For all that Mr. Dodd has accomplished and for his avid support of the Punch & Judy Fellowship, Ken Dodd is our “Humanitarian of the Week.”