Milton Marx (October 23, 1892 - April 21, 1977), known as Gummo, was one of the Marx Brothers. Born in New York City, he worked with his brothers on Vaudeville, but left the act because he did not like performing. This was before they made any of their famous movies. He also served in the army during World War One, thus being the only Marx brother with military service.

After leaving the act, Gummo went into the dressmaking business. Later he joined with his brother Zeppo Marx and operated a theatrical agency. The agency was later sold and Gummo turned to representing his brother Groucho Marx and television show The Life of Riley, which he helped develop.

He was given his nickname because he had a tendency to be sneaky backstage, and creep up on others without them knowing (like a gumshoe). Another explanation cited by biographers and family members is that Milton, being the sickliest of the brothers, often wore rubber overshoes, also called "gumshoes," to protect himself from taking sick in inclement weather.

Gummo, along with Groucho, Chico, and Harpo, was named "Gummo" during a card game at the Orpheum Theatre in Galesburg, Illinois, and it turned out the names stuck for their entire lives. (Zeppo was also later named "Zeppo", based on these names, all ending in "o").

Gummo died on April 21, 1977, in Palm Springs, California.

1892 births | 1977 deaths | Jewish American comedians | Jewish American actors | Marx Brothers | People from New York City | Vaudeville performers

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