Charles Edward Springall, known by the stage name Charlie Drake, was born on 19
June 1925 in Elephant and Castle, Southwark, south London. As a singer, he began
his career at the age of eight, winning a chorus place in a Harry Champion music
hall production. His first television debut occurred in The Centre Show (1953),
and he made a significant impact on television through various shows, including
Laughter in Store (1957), Drake's Progress (1957–58), and Charlie Drake In…
(1958 to 1960), where he was known for his opening catchphrase "Hello, my
darlings!" His career faced a temp...