Chesney Allen was an American actor best known for his work in Dreaming (1944), Here Comes the Sun (1946), and O-Kay for Sound (1937). He was part of the popular WWII comedy duo Flanagan & Allen.
Personal and Family Life
Chesney Allen was born on April 5, 1893, in Brighton, East Sussex, England. He was married to Aleta Cosette Turner from 1926 until his passing in 1982. Allen was not only known for his comedic talent but also for his strong connection with his family, being the son of a builder and starting his career on stage in 1912.
Military Service
During World War I, Allen enlisted in the 9th Lancers and served overseas as a cavalry soldier. He was part of the mounted escort for Lt. Gen. The Earl of Cavan, and later saw action as a sergeant in the 10th Battalion Royal West Kents. He faced significant challenges during his service, including being gassed on two occasions.
Death and Legacy
Chesney Allen passed away on November 13, 1982, in Midhurst, England. His legacy includes being a member of “The Crazy Gang,” a well-known comedy group, and his influence can still be seen in popular culture; the English pop singer Chesney Hawkes was named after him.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Gasbags | 1941-02-01 | Ches |
| Listen to Britain | 1942-04-01 | Self – Flanagan & Allen |
| The Frozen Limits | 1939-11-01 | Ches |
| A Fire Has Been Arranged | 1935-06-01 | Ches |
| Alf’s Button Afloat | 1938-06-30 | Ches |
| The Bailiffs | 1932-09-30 | Meredith |
| O-Kay for Sound | 1937-02-09 | Ches |
| Here Comes the Sun | 1945-01-12 | Ches Allen |
| Wild Boy | 1934-01-01 | Auctioneer and Bookmaker |
| Life Is a Circus | 1960-02-16 | Ches |
| Dreaming | 1944-11-28 | Ches |
| Theatre Royal | 1943-07-26 | Gordon Maxwell |
| Underneath the Arches | 1937-01-03 | Ches |
| Dunkirk | 1958-03-20 | Himself |
| We’ll Smile Again | 1942-12-07 | Gordon Maxwell |
| They’re Off | 1933-02-02 |