Keith Harris (ventriloquist)

Keith Harris (1947-2015) was a British ventriloquist, best known for his television appearances with his puppets, most notably Orville the Duck and Cuddles the Monkey.

Harris began his career as a stage magician before transitioning to ventriloquism. He gained national fame in the UK through television shows such as The Keith Harris Show which ran for many years in various formats. His act typically featured comedic banter and musical numbers performed with his puppet characters.

Orville, a green duck wearing a nappy, was arguably his most popular creation. The character's signature song, "Orville's Song" ("I wish I could fly, right up to the sky..."), became a UK Top 5 hit in 1982. Cuddles, a mischievous monkey, was another prominent character in Harris's performances.

Harris's act was popular with children and families, and he was a regular fixture on British television throughout the 1980s and 1990s. He also toured extensively with his stage show. While his style of entertainment fell out of mainstream favour in later years, Harris continued to perform and remained a recognizable figure in British popular culture. His legacy includes the memorable characters he created and the enduring popularity of "Orville's Song." He was married to fellow performer Sarah Harris.