For generations of moviegoers, Christopher Lee (1922-2015) was the embodiment of cinematic evil. From his early days as Hammer Films' resident Count Dracula to more recent roles like the evil wizard Saruman from The Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies – by way of the Star Wars prequels' Count Dooku, The Wicker Man's Lord Summerisle and James Bond's triple-nippled nemesis, Scaramanga, from The Man with the Golden Gun – Lee's imposing 6'5" frame, piercing eyes and mesmerising voice made him one of cinema's most enduring and iconic screen villains.
And, during a remarkable career that spanned 57 years and more than 200 movies, he even found time to accidentally position himself at centre of the Hollywood universe.
Lee was a high-performer in the Centre of the Hollywood Universe chart, a variation of Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon, the quirky parlour game that was all the rage amongst movie geeks in the 1990s. Inspired by the 'six degrees of separation' concept, the game's purpose was to connect via film roles any given actor or actress with Kevin Bacon in six moves or less.
For example, only two films separate Kevin Bacon from Laurel & Hardy:
- Kevin Bacon appeared in JFK (1991) with Jack Lemon.
- Jack Lemon appeared in No products found. with Cap Somers.
- Cap Somers appeared in Way Out West (1937) with Stan and Ollie.
The Centre of the Hollywood Universe chart took this concept one step further by using a computer algorithm called The Oracle of Bacon to rank a movie star's connectivity at any given time. At one stage, Lee was the chart's highest ranking living actor. Given the fact his acting career spanned seven decades, over 200 films and three of the most popular movie franchises of all time – Lord of the Rings, Star Wars and Bond – it's hardly surprising.
Returning to the earlier example, only one film stood between Christopher Lee and Laurel & Hardy:
- Christopher Lee appeared in (amongst many other things) 1958's Dracula with Peter Cushing .
- Peter Cushing appeared in A Chump at Oxford (1940) with The Immortal Duo.
In fact, despite his reputation as one of history's greatest movie villains, Lee was rarely more than one film away from a slapstick comedy A-lister. Vaudeville legends The Marx Brothers are a case in point:
- Christopher Lee appeared in Steven Spielberg's 1941 (released in 1979) with Robert Stack.
- Robert Stack appeared in 1950's Mr Music with Groucho Marx.
Or The Three Stooges:
- Christopher Lee appeared in Private's Progress (1957) with Terry-Thomas.
- Terry-Thomas appeared in It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World (1963) with The Three Stooges.
In fact, let's go all the way back to Charlie Chaplin:
- Christopher Lee appeared in the somewhat unfortunately-titled Babes in Bagdad (1952) with Paulette Goddard.
- Paulette Goddard appeared in Modern Times (1936) and The Great Dictator (1940) with her then-husband, Charlie Chaplain.
There are similar connections between Christopher Lee's filmography and many of the greats of British comedy. Take Morecambe and Wise, for instance:
- Christopher Lee appeared in The Devil-Ship Pirates (1964) with Johnny (Mike Baldwin from Coronation Street) Briggs.
- Johnny Briggs appeared in The Intelligence Men (1965) with Eric and Ernie.
Or Tommy Cooper:
- Christopher Lee appeared in Dr. Terror's House of Horrors (1965) with Roy (Record Breakers) Castle.
- Roy Castle appeared in Eric Sykes' The Plank (1967) with Tommy Cooper.
Or even Benny Hill:
- Christopher Lee appeared in Billy Wilder's The Private Life of Sherlock Holmes (1970) with Irene (Metal Mickey) Handl.
- Irene Handl appeared in The Italian Job (1969) with Benny Hill.
At the epicentre of this Christopher Lee comedy conundrum is a delightfully odd film called The Magic Christian (1969). It stars Peter Sellers as Guy Grand, an eccentric aristocrat who adopts a young, homeless Ringo Starr on a whim, then proceeds to educate him in the ways of the world through a series of increasingly outrageous pranks.
The comedy is broad and the satire far from subtle, but what makes it interesting in this context is that it featured appearances from Spike Milligan, John Cleese, Graham Chapman and Hattie Jacques. And there, in the midst of this weird collision between Goons, Beatles, Pythons and the Carry On team, we find Christopher Lee – on board a luxury cruise liner, terrorising the upper echelons of society in the somewhat typecast role of 'Ship's Vampire'.
Given his close proximity to so many comedy greats throughout his filmography, it seems apt that Lee was once offered the chance to play a truly iconic comedy role. He later admitted that turning down the part of Dr Rumack in the movie Airplane! was one of the biggest regrets of his career. That role went to Leslie Nielsen, of course, and the chief reason why he was so damn funny in that damn funny film was because – like the rest of the actors in Airplane! – he was cast against type. Up until then, Nielsen was best known for strait-laced dramas, but Airplane! transformed his career, turning him into a late-blooming comedy star.
Could the same thing have happened to an erstwhile Prince of Darkness?
It's a tantalising thought: if things had worked out differently, Christopher Lee – history's greatest screen villain – might now be remembered for another infamous character whose name begins with a 'D'.
Lieutenant Frank Drebin of Police Squad.
Work-Based Comedy at Amazon
- 【Package Contents】you will receive 12 pieces of funny sticky pads in 6 styles, 30 sheets for each, sufficient amount and rich styles to satisfy your daily use and sharing needs. Funny sticky note pads bringing six times the laughter and extra fun to the office! The novelty sticky notes entertain with witty phrases and matching colorful illustrations. Funny note pads make fun gifts for friends teacher, and coworkers in office settings. Fun sticky notes, office gifts for coworkers.
- 【Small Size】each post it notes pad measures appro 6cm x 8cm/ 2.4 x 3.2 in, appropriate dimension and enough writing space, each style 30 sheets, portable and adorable, convenient for you to carry when working, daily using, traveling and more. There’s no better way to brighten up a busy workday than with a daily dose of humor & sarcasm! Brutally honest. Novelty sticky notes, joke pharmacy label cups, fun office gift, staff meeting essentials, fun gifts, note pads, sarcastic sticky notes.
- 【Bring On The Office Fun】the sarcastic notepads are a humorous way to relieve stress at work, the content of these notes pad sayings with bright colors, easily attract others' attention, can help you express your true feelings, bringing you a pleasant mood and making your life and work interesting. funny, witty, and sarcastic messages that will make any interaction memorable. Friends and Coworkers will be delighted when receiving post it notes, making daily interactions fun and unique.
- 【Reliable Material】the sticky notepads are made of quality paper material, safe and smooth to touch, with strong adhesion, not easy to fall off, providing you with a nice writing experience, are reliable and serviceable, suitable for fun office gift. Super Funny Notepads are a blessing for stress-relief and your mood. Simply amazing as a unique gifts fun for your teacher, boss or coworker, as well as funny teacher and administrative professional day gifts. Sarcastic sticky notes.
- 【Widely Applicable】the funny notepads for coworkers are Perfect Coworker Gifts, and appropriate for shopping lists, reminders, to do lists, diaries, memos, notes, and schedules, ideal choices for offices, homes, schools, and classrooms. Spread some extra joy around the office bubble! Giving someone a deep belly laugh is the best gift ever - and with the notepads you can even gift cute office supplies. Funny sticky notes for work, notepads for teachers, sticky note pads cute.
- Size: 4"x4", the size is very suitable for your favorite small space, simple and creative products bring joy to users.
- Environmental use: This acrylic plaque with wooden stand sign decoration comes with funny language and creativity patterns, making it suitable for display on smooth tabletops such as tables, shelves, and desks. Add comfort to your home and office decor, allowing you to have a good mood every day.
- Funny Work Gifts: PROBLEM SOLVING FLOWCHART ,office gift Decorative Sign.
- Thoughtful gifts: acrylic plaque with fun themed text design can be your Humorous and personalised gift choice.it can be given for Joke Gift For Men Women Office Work Employee Boss Coworkers for Home Office.
- Material and process: Black vintage wooden base and acrylic creates an exquisite tabletop decor plaque, fine workmanship, not easy to deform or break, easy to use.
- Instant Office Humor - Bright yellow "CAUTION: Overstimulated" sign with bold fonts adds laughter to stressful desks, coworking spaces, or home offices
- Premium 3D Acrylic Design - Reinforced printing technology ensures fade-resistant, scratch-proof messages that last for years. No flimsy plastic
- Simple Assembly, Max Impact - Comes with a stable base. Just unbox & display instantly as a desk divider, bookshelf marker, or meeting room alert
- Stress Relief Superstar - Humorous warnings like "Do Not Enter" and "Little Reminder" diffuse tension and spark conversations
- Versatile & Gift-Ready - Perfect for office pranks, WFH setups, or coworking spaces. Ideal gag gift for colleagues who need a smile
- HR OFFICE HOME DECOR: “But Did You Document It”, It is an for family, colleagues, friends, sisters, employees, HR Define Gifts, Also a fun addition to any desk in your home or office.
- OFFICE DECORATION GIFTS FOR COWORKERS: Break the monotony of the workday with a dash of humor. The desk plate features witty and amusing phrases that will bring a smile to your face and your colleagues. It is a work gift for coworker as, HR gift, team gifts for employees, inspirational gift It can also be used as a birthday gift, thanksgiving gift, Office Home Decor, Personalize your desktop, make it unique to you or send a special message to someone.
- PERFECT DECORATIONS GIFT: It is made of premium quality acrylic material and wooden base, which is lightweight but solid, not break or distort easily. And the surface is smooth, comfortable touching. It is printed with a beautiful clear design and funny sayings that are hard to fade, and the exquisite craftsmanship makes them to accompany you for a long time and brings you a pleasant experience of use.
- FREE STANDING WORK GIFTS: The wood desk plaques are simple to assemble. Just insert the plaque signs into the slots in the base, so you can easily and quickly place them on the shelves, desks, tables, very easy to use, Takes up less space, Not only can you use it as a decoration in your office, but you can also give it as a gift to others, is a great gift.
- PORTABLE AND LIGHTWEIGHT: This Unique office desktop decorative sign measures approx: 4.9 x 4.2 x 0.4 inches, which is proper to be placed on the table or desk, easy to store and carry. Whether you're working in a corporate office or a home workspace, the hilarious office decor fits seamlessly into any setting. It's a conversation starter and a mood lifter.
- 【Funny Desk Accessory】 A great way to lighten the mood at work or home, this playful desk decor adds a humorous touch to any space.
- 【Customizable Display】 The writable acrylic surface lets you easily track the days with a water-based pen, making it a fun and interactive addition to your desk.
- 【Sleek & Stylish Decor】 With its minimalist design, this clear acrylic sign complements any office desk, bookshelf, living room, bedroom, or workspace.
- 【Durable & Premium Quality】 Made from high-quality acrylic and set on a sleek wooden base, this decor measures 4 x 4 inches, bringing positivity to any environment.
- 【Thoughtful Gift Idea】 The perfect gift for friends, colleagues, bosses, or loved ones, this unique desk accessory adds both humor and warmth to any workspace or home.
- I Always Give 100% At Work - Monday 11% Tuesday 24% Wednesday 40% Thursday 23% Friday 2%
- Funny work quotes and office humor saying makes a great gift for colleagues and workmates
- Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem
- Product Dimensions: The dimensions of this rectangular mouse pad are 10.15 x 8.30 x 0.12 inches (260 x 210 x 3mm), and its weight is 0.22 pounds, ensuring portability and ease of use.
- Premium Quality: This mouse pad is made of natural rubber to enhance your use experience. The smooth surface of the mouse pad facilitates quick and accurate mouse movement. The non-slip rubber base and dense non-slip texture keep it stable.
- Personalized Design: This mouse pad is carefully crafted with a cute pattern. The stitched edges prevent wear and tear, ensuring durability. The surface of the pad is water-resistant, easy to clean, and retains its bright colors for a long time.
- Practical Gifts：Cute patterns, personalized themes and careful design are the best choice for family, friends, colleagues, bosses, mentors, teachers, employees, nurses who need a mouse pad. Great gift for Christmas, Thanksgiving, Birthday, Labor Day, Easter, Nurses Week, Valentine's Day, Mother's Day.
- Versatile Uses：Mouse pads are widely used. In addition to being used in the office, they can also be used when playing games, working from home, etc. In addition, the exquisite mouse pad can be carried everywhere, outdoors, in coffee shops, and other office environments, which is very suitable for freelancers.
- 🔧 Funny Maintenance Humor Mouse Pad – Featuring the relatable phrase “Yes, That Does Require a Work Order,” this mouse pad is perfect for adding a touch of workplace sarcasm to any desk!
- 🎁 Great Appreciation Gift for Workers & Technicians – Ideal for maintenance workers, technicians, managers, and anyone who deals with endless work orders. A fun and practical gift to lighten the mood!
- 🖱️ Non-Slip Rubber Base & Smooth Surface – Designed for comfort and durability, this mouse pad ensures a steady grip while providing a smooth experience for everyday computer use.
- 🏢 Perfect Office Humor & Gag Gift – Whether for a coworker, boss, or maintenance team, this novelty mouse pad brings a smile to the office while keeping the work orders rolling! 🏢 Perfect Office Humor & Gag Gift – Whether for a coworker, boss, or maintenance team, this novelty mouse pad brings a smile to the office while keeping the work orders rolling!
- Spreadsheet Mouse Pad: "When You Excel They Always Spreadsheet About You", our mouse pad is printed with funny saying and colorful patterns. The cute and interesting mouse pad will add personality to your office desk and bring more positive emotions to you while working, studying or gaming
- Material and Size: The mouse pad is made of high-quality materials, with the size of 8.66 x 8.66 x 0.12 inches/22 x 22 x 0.3 cm, lightweight and easy to carry, soft and foldable, perfect for office, home, gaming and business travel
- Super Smooth Surface: The super-smooth surface of the mouse pad allows you to move the mouse quickly and accurately track cursor positioning, providing you with a comfortable experience. Suitable for all kinds of computer, laptop and wireless mouse
- Durable and Non-slip: The 3mm thick non-slip natural rubber base and dense anti-slip texture allow the mouse to operate stably, eliminating unnecessary movement of the mouse pad during use. The mouse pad is designed with edge stitching, which can prevent deformation and damage to ensure long-term use
- Perfect Gift Idea: Our funny mouse pad is a great desk accessory for family, friends, coworkers, bosses, teachers, nurses, neighbors. It's also an excellent holiday gift for occasions such as Birthday, Graduation Season, Teacher Appreciation Week, Nurses Week, Christmas, Thanksgiving, Mother's Day and Father's Day
- Check out our funny work apparel collection for humor in your daily grind. Designed for overworked employees and managers, these light-hearted designs will make you smile. Try this work-related design for a laugh.
- Wear this humorous work clothing to lighten the mood and bond with your colleagues over the struggles of the 9-5 grind.
- Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem
Last update on 2025-11-18 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
