Artists & Writers · Early 20th Century
George Bernard Shaw’s Last Words
“Dying is easy. Comedy is hard.”— George Bernard Shaw, November 2, 1950
Who Was George Bernard Shaw?
George Bernard Shaw was an Irish playwright, critic, and political activist. His plays Pygmalion, Major Barbara, and Man and Superman are pillars of modern drama.
The Final Moments
Shaw fell while pruning an apple tree at his home and died from complications. This famous quote is attributed to him on his deathbed.
Are These Words Verified?
This quote is apocryphal and often misattributed to various actors and writers. No contemporary account confirms Shaw said this; he was likely unconscious after his fall. The quote predates Shaw.
Sources
- biography Holroyd, Michael. Bernard Shaw (biography)
- newspaper The Times obituary, November 3, 1950
Legacy
Shaw's Pygmalion became My Fair Lady. He won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1925.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were George Bernard Shaw’s last words?
“Dying is easy. Comedy is hard.”
How did George Bernard Shaw die?
George Bernard Shaw died on November 2, 1950 at the age of 94. Cause of death: Renal failure following a fall.
Were George Bernard Shaw’s last words documented?
This quote is apocryphal and often misattributed to various actors and writers. No contemporary account confirms Shaw said this; he was likely unconscious after his fall. The quote predates Shaw.
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