Neil Innes and Viv Stanshall, the lead singer of the renowned underground art school comedy/jazz band, The Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band, was renowned for his unique persona as one of Britain's most eccentric individuals.
Born in Oxfordshire, Viv was raised as a cockney in the east London and Essex areas, which had a profound impact on his development. His distinct aristocratic English accent, often punctuated by unexpected belches and obscenities, became a defining characteristic.
As Viv entered his late 60s, his persona underwent a significant transformation. He evolved from a dapper, witty eccentric in his youth to a cynical, almost hollow-eyed wreck, often seen in a state of advanced alcoholism. His appearance was marked by a shaved head, knotted beard, and signature octagonal glasses.
One of Viv's most enduring creations is Sir Henry of Rawlinson's End, who first appeared on a Bonzos LP, later became a radio series, and finally a movie. Interestingly, the real Sir Henry Rawlinson, of whom Viv was unaware, passed away exactly 100 years to the day before Viv Stanshall.
