Kaplan Kaye is a British actor, singer, songwriter and musician whose career has spanned more than six decades in entertainment.
Born in Watford, Hertfordshire, in 1949, Kaplan is the son of the celebrated actor and entertainer Davy Kaye. He trained at the Corona Stage Academy and began his professional career as a child performer.
Kaplan made his television debut in 1958, playing the young Ebenezer Scrooge in an adaptation of A Christmas Carol for the television series Tales from Dickens. During the 1960s, he appeared in numerous popular British television programmes, including The Charlie Drake Show, William, The Saint, Armchair Theatre, Z-Cars and Journey to the Unknown.
His film work included appearances in Corridors of Blood, Passionate Summer, Carlton-Browne of the F.O., Night Train for Inverness and The Whisperers, establishing him as a familiar young performer across British film and television.
Alongside his acting career, Kaplan developed a successful career as a singer, musician and songwriter. He released several singles during the 1960s and 1970s, including Do You Believe in Magic and I (Who Have Nothing).
In 1982, performing under the name The Brat, Kaplan co-wrote and recorded the comedy song Chalk Dust – The Umpire Strikes Back. Inspired by tennis star John McEnroe, the novelty record reached number 19 on the UK Singles Chart and became one of the decade's most memorable comedy hits.
Kaplan’s talents as a songwriter were further recognised in 1994 when his song You Will Find Me There received the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors award for Best British Song at the Cavan International Song Festival.
His composition Take Me With You, originally recorded by Lyn Christopher, later found a new audience when it was sampled in the LL Cool J track Feel My Heartbeat, featuring 50 Cent.
Kaplan has continued to perform extensively in live entertainment, combining his musical ability with a natural talent for comedy. He is also one half of the ukulele duo The Ukaye Ukes, alongside comedy writer and producer Bill Dare.
A dedicated member of the Grand Order of Water Rats, Kaplan was named Rat of the Year in 2004 and served as King Rat from 2006 to 2008. He has also served the Order as Preceptor and has remained closely involved in its charitable and show business activities.
Through his work on stage, screen and in music, together with his longstanding commitment to the Grand Order of Water Rats, Kaplan Kaye has made a significant contribution to British entertainment.
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