Profile of the Day: Bob Hope

Do you remember watching Bob Hope onscreen? The comedian died on this day in 2003 at the age of 100.

Image: Bob Hope / U.S. National Archives and Records Administration

He was born Leslie Townes Hope on May 29, 1903 in Eltham, London. He was the fifth of seven sons born to William Henry Hope, a stonemason, and Avis Townes, an amateur opera singer and cleaner. In 1908, the family emigrated to the United States on board the SS Philadelphia and passed through Ellis Island before settling in Cleveland, Ohio.

Hope held a series of odd jobs before finding success in vaudeville. His natural humor and comedic timing led him to easily transition to radio, television and film. In addition to his success in entertainment, Hope dedicated his time to performing USO shows to entertain American troops. He continued these performances for 50 years and headlined 57 tours for the USO. In 1997, Congress declared Hope an honorary veteran of the United States Armed Forces.

Bob Hope died on July 27, 2003, just two months after his 100th birthday.

How are you related to Bob Hope? Explore his family tree and discover your connection to the legendary comedian.

View Bob Hope’s Geni Profile