Here's why the iconic comedy duo Laurel and Hardy broke up
Laurel and Hardy were known for making waves in the comedy world together. Their comedic chemistry was unmatched and rare for the time. Together, they provided laughs, broke barriers and set records.
In 1935, the duo broke up, leaving many fans to wonder if they would ever see their favorite comedy team back in action.
According to a 1935 interview with The Daily Nonpareil, Stan Laurel, one half of the iconic duo, insisted their break from each other was only temporary. He broke his silence to discuss why he and his successful comedy partner of seven years had a new status as separated.
"This separation is something that couldn't be avoided," Laurel said. "The trouble began when we decided to make feature length pictures as well as two-reelers."
A two-reeler in the 1930s referred to a short film that only lasted about 20 minutes, with a runtime of around 10 minutes per reel of film. These films were a common format for comedies, and many of Laurel and Hardy's early works were released as two-reelers.
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"I pleaded with Mr. Roach and others at the studio to get us a good story, a story for Laurel and Hardy," Laurel continued. "I felt if Laurel and Hardy were to continue as a movie team, they ought to have stronger feature material."
The duo broke up because they felt the material given to them wasn’t up to their standards. During his time apart from Hardy, Laurel was undecided about his next move. He had already received offers to work for other companies, either as an actor or a writer, but he wanted to wait and see what would come of the breakup and if the studios would understand his reasoning.
He knew he and Hardy were talented comedians; he just wanted the studios to see it too.
According to the interview, another contributing factor for the duo's breakup included Mr. Roach's company refusing to give the two comedians a joint contract.
"Mind you, there's nothing personal in this fight. There never were any unpleasantries exchanged," Laurel said. "It is strictly a business disagreement and nothing more. And, of course, Oliver and I are still best friends. Yes, he feels badly about our breaking up, as badly as I feel about it. But I felt my stand was the right one."
It was all business, but many fans would be pleased to know that the comedy duo didn’t separate for good. They went on to appear in many more films until 1951.