Until I saw this photo, I never knew that the youngest Marx Brother – Zeppo – became a theatrical agent. I came across this shot on VickieLester.com. It’s a shame the car got in the middle of the shot (or at least that it’s so blurry we can’t see it clearly) but this was the Zeppo Marx talent agency at 8732 Sunset Boulevard, which puts it at the western end of the Sunset Strip.
I knew Zeppo was an agent. He became Barbara Stanwyck’s agent in 1935, just before she went in with Zeppo and Marian Marz on the Marwyck Ranch in Van Nuys.
Thank you, Lisa. I didn’t know that.
You’re welcome, Martin.
I’ve loved old Hollywood forever, and worked in entertainment (boring business end) from 1987 to 2005. That said, I certainly didn’t know all the site details you post here. I’ve focused more on my favorite stars: Barbara Stanwyck and Ginger Rogers.
I had the honor of being acquainted with Ginger Rogers from 1987 until her passing. I never got to meet Barbara, but did get to know several people who knew her, including the irreplaceable, A.C. Lyles.
Anyway, I certainly don’t know everything about old Hollywood, but if it has to do with Rogers or Stanwyck, I know more than most.
I love this site.
Lisa
Martin, have you seen this? By 1939, Zeppo had apparently moved. Cracks me up as he added what looks like “Vice” under his signature. Well, at least he was honest!
http://www.lib.umd.edu/LAB/exhibits/leadingrole/js-images/JS-con4.jpg
Here’s an “ouch” letter from 1934 when he was part of another agency. I guess all I can say is at least the screenwriter received a response. What happened to common courtesy today?
https://www.historyforsale.com/productimages/jpeg/178171.jpg
Love all your posts! Jean
It looks like that signature on the left starts with a “G” – so I’m thinking maybe that’s Groucho’s signature? But his legal name was Julius, so maybe not? As for the “ouch” letter, I guess they were as blunt in 1934 as they are in 2016!
That signature on the left is Gummo Marx – VP of the talent agency for quite some time. Both Gummo and Zeppo were partners together in the talent agency.
Do you know when the beautiful building that housed his agency was torn down?
No, Shelly, I’m sorry but I don’t.
If I’m not mistaken, either Zeppo or Gummo discovered Irish Tenor Dennis Morgan as well.