| Name |
Erin Fleming |
| Height |
|
| Naionality |
Canadian |
| Date of Birth |
13-August-1941 |
| Place of Birth |
New Liskeard, Ontario, Canada |
| Famous for |
Acting |
Erin Fleming was a Canadian actress who was best known as the companion and "secretary" to Groucho Marx in his final years. Fleming was born Marilyn Fleming in New Liskeard, Ontario, Canada. She appeared in minor roles in six films between 1965 and 1976, during which time she became acquainted with Marx and moved into his house.
Fleming's influence on Marx was controversial. Many close to him admitted that she did much to revive his popularity; these efforts included a series of one-man shows, culminating in a sold-out performance at Carnegie Hall which was released on a best-selling record album and an honorary Academy Award he received in 1974. Also, some observers felt the apparent relationship with a young starlet boosted Groucho's ego, adding to his vitality. Others, including Marx's son, Arthur, described her in Svengali-esque terms, accusing her of exploiting an increasingly senile and frail Marx in pursuit of her own stardom.
In the years leading up to Marx's death in August 1977, his heirs filed several lawsuits against Fleming. One allegation leveled against Fleming was that she was determined to sell Marx's favorite car, a Cadillac, against his wishes. When Marx protested, it was said, Fleming threatened, "I will slap you from here to Pittsburgh." Another allegation had her dancing nude around Marx, fondling herself and asking "Don't you wish you could have some of this?" Many people close to Marx believed Fleming was abusive towards him.
