Bernard Manning, born on August 13, 1930 in Manchester, England, was a prominent English comedian and club owner. He left school at the early age of 14 and started working for his father's green grocery business. Manning's comedic talent was evident even during his time working in the business, as he entertained both customers and employees with his jokes and witty remarks.
Manning's career took a new direction when he joined the British Army to fulfill his National Service requirements. During his time in the army, he continued to hone his comedic skills and discovered his passion for making people laugh.
Manning's big break came in 1971 when he appeared on the Granada comedy show, The Comedians. His sharp wit and biting humor quickly garnered attention, and he became known for his controversial material about ethnic stereotypes and minorities. Despite his popularity among live audiences, Manning's television appearances were limited due to the controversial nature of his content.
In 1974, Manning became involved in The Wheeltappers and Shunters Social Club, a popular variety show that showcased a mix of comedy, music, and entertainment. Manning's appearances on the show further solidified his reputation as a talented comedian with a unique comedic style.
Manning was a devoted Manchester City supporter throughout his life, and his love for the football club was well-known among his fans and peers. In November 1991, Manning was honored as the subject of the television show This Is Your Life, which celebrated his contributions to the world of comedy.
In his personal life, Manning was married to Veronica Finneran from 1956 until her passing in 1986. Together, they had a son named Bernard Jr., who followed in his father's footsteps and pursued a career in comedy. Manning's legacy lives on through the impact he made on the comedy world and the lasting memories he created for audiences around the world.
Manning's comedic talents were not limited to the stage, as he also had the opportunity to perform with legendary entertainer Dean Martin in Las Vegas. This experience solidified Manning's status as a respected comedian with a gift for entertaining audiences of all kinds.