Phil Silvers, who died on 1 November, 1985, is regarded as one of last century’s top humour actors.

While the hit TV series The Phil Silvers Show was one of the 1950s’ best-loved comedies, he also made his mark in the worlds of film and theatre.

His trademark horn-rimmed glasses and catchphrases such as “Gladda see ya!” only served to further his distinctiveness.

And while Mr Silvers' accomplishments usually won the praise of critics and viewers, those who worked with him also sung his praises.

Born Fischl Silver on 11 May, 1911, in Brooklyn, New York , he turned to singing and comedy as an outlet from his disadvantaged background.

During his early teens he made the acquaintance of vaudeville professional Gus Edwards, who helped him break into the circuit.

Mr Silvers went on to take roles in some short films, in burlesque shows and on Broadway, where his part in the 1939 musical comedy Yokel Boy won him the critics’ attention.

Having turned his attention to Hollywood, he appeared in his first proper film role in 1941’s Hit Parade, which led the way for string of other character parts in movies such as Lady Be Good, Coney Island and Cover Girl.

However, Mr Silvers had not left Broadway forever, and in 1947 starred in the musical High Button Shoes, followed by Top Banana, for which he won a Tony and Donaldson Award.

Turning to another entertainment medium, 1955 saw him star as Sgt Ernie Bilko in the immensely popular military comedy series The Phil Silvers Show (aka You’ll Never Get Rich), which he appeared in until 1959, winning five Emmy Awards.

Now a household name, Mr Silvers went on to appear in more stage, film and TV productions, and despite the failure of a new 1963 sitcom, The New Phil Silvers Show, he came out the other stronger and ready for more success.

He won another Tony Award for his part in the revival of the acclaimed musical A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum in 1972, which he had turned down the first time he was asked to appear in it, and guested on a number of TV shows.

Mr Silvers suffered a stroke in 1972, which he never fully recovered from before his death from a heart attack in 1985, at the age of 74.

But he was, and still is, the archetypal example of how dedication and talent can lift someone from a poor background to a successful life in showbiz.

From his early vaudeville turns to his screen successes, Mr Silvers undoubtedly influenced subsequent comedians of his generation, and of generations to come.

The Phil Silvers Show remains a fondly remembered comedy great, and, in some people’s opinion, the best sitcom of all time.