A first for this blog: Something about a Groucho Marx impersonator who isn't Frank Ferrante…
This is an Aqua Velva commercial from the early seventies that was done with Groucho's blessing and, I assume, compensation. The gent doing the great impression is Lewis J. Stadlen, who did it in the short-lived Broadway show, Minnie's Boys. The show was not a hit but Stadlen got great reviews, including many a compliment from the man he was playing.
Stadlen had impersonations in his blood. His father, Allen Swift, was a leading voice actor in cartoons and commercials made in New York (also the host of a kid's show back there) and was often called upon to mimic voices. Lewis went on to become a top Broadway star. He was seen most recently in The Nance, which starred Nathan Lane. The show has closed but before it did, it was recorded for posterity and for a Live From Lincoln Center broadcast some time this year on PBS. Don't ask me why it's on Live From Lincoln Center if it was recorded last year…probably the same reason Jimmy Kimmel Live is not live.
The lady at the end of this commercial is also of interest. It's Erin Fleming, who was Groucho's controversial lady friend, manager, caregiver and crazy person. Erin was an unsuccessful actress who…well, if you care about this, you know the story. If you don't, my pal Steve Stoliar — who worked in Groucho's house during the Fleming regime — has written a splendid book about his experiences there. If you don't have a copy, click here to get one. There's also a Kindle version and a lot of people like the audio book for which Steve not only reads his words but does impressions of the leading players.
I think it's also safe to assume that Erin got the job in the commercial because Groucho made that a condition of obtaining his permission. Or maybe that the ad agency offered her the role figuring that she wouldn't let Groucho say no. Either way, here 'tis. By the way, Aqua Velva is a great after-shave if your mustache is painted-on…
