The Myth of Benny Hill and the British Royal Family

Often, the world of entertainment and royalty intertwines in the most unexpected of ways, creating myths and legends that, in the end, prove to be nothing more than misunderstandings or urban legends. Benny Hill, a celebrated British comedian and actor, is one such figure who has been at the center of several such misconceptions. The claim that Benny Hill was related to the British Royal Family or held any official title is, in fact, a myth. This article will debunk these myths and clarify the truth about Benny Hill's background and connection to the royals.

Who was Benny Hill?

Alfred Hawthorne "Benny" Hill (1924-1992) was a famous British comedian and actor known for his television show and numerous films. Hill was born on March 23, 1924, in the town of Wirral, Merseyside, in the north-west of England. He was born to Alfred Hill and Helen Cave Hill. His father was a circus clown who later became the manager of a surgical appliance store, while his mother worked in retail.

Benny Hill was not the son of a royal nor did he ever hold any official title. The idea that he was related to the British Royal Family is entirely baseless. Benny Hill's family background was decidedly middle-class, serving as a stark contrast to the whispering corridors of power within the royal household.

The Clerical Error Confusion

One of the most widespread and persistent myths about Benny Hill is that he was in the royal line of succession for just a brief moment due to a clerical error. This idea is so prevalent that even those familiar with the truth might be tempted to believe it. However, a quick look into the truth reveals that this is nothing more than a joke or, at best, a playful misunderstanding.

In 1972, there was a brief and unintentional confusion regarding the royal line of succession. However, it had nothing to do with Benny Hill. Mary, Princess Royal, had two sons with her husband, the 6th Earl of Harewood, who later became the 7th Earl, and Hon. Gerald Lascelles. This segment of the royal family had nothing in common with Benny Hill.

Truth About Benny Hill and the Royal Family

As the son of Alfred Hill and Helen Cave, Benny Hill was part of the working-class community, far removed from the royal lineage. The idea that he could have been part of the royal family is nonsensical, given that he was born in 1924, long after the line of succession would have included such titles. Furthermore, the House of Windsor’s lineage is strictly maintained through male-line descendants, and Benny Hill was clearly not in that line.

Even more, the title HRH (His Royal Highness) is reserved for a specific set of individuals: children, male-line grandchildren, and male-line great-grandchildren of a reigning or former sovereign monarch. Since Benny Hill was simply the son of Alfred and Helen, he was not eligible for any such title.

Personality and Life

Benny Hill’s life was a testimony to the lack of pretension that often accompanies great talent. Despite his immense success, he lived in a council flat all his life. This modesty and closeness to the people he was serving through his comedy made him a true 'working-class hero' even as his career soared.

Legacy and Final Years

Benny Hill remained close to the Queen until his death in 1992 and was once hotly tipped to be Regent if Charles had succeeded before his 18th birthday. This detail showcases the respect and admiration that he commanded, perhaps inadvertently cementing his place in the public memory, even as the royal connection remained a myth.

In conclusion, the myth of Benny Hill and the British Royal Family is a testament to the power of misinformation. His background and legacy as a comedian and actor are a far richer story than any fabricated link to the monarchy. Benny Hill remains a cultural icon and a beloved figure in British entertainment, remembered for his humor and authenticity, not for any royal connections.