Comedians who were massive in other countries?


In the late 90's I was on a flight from Sierra Leone to Amsterdam. I was knackered and the plane looked as if it was going to be pretty empty so I began looking forward to stretching out and having a kip.
At the last minute though dozens of Liberian refugees boarded and all the seats were quickly filled. Nonetheless I managed to fall asleep only to be woken up by gales of laughter in the cabin. I looked up and on the big screen (these were the days before seat back screens) was Tommy Cooper. The refugees were absolutely loving him! I thought then that anyone who can make a refugee - sad at leaving Africa and fearful of the future - howl with laughter must be pretty good at his craft.
 
Wisdom and Albania
Their goverment had very strict rules on what was acceptable viewing, and Norman Wisdoms films passed all of the criteria.
His films were judged to be good, wholesome fun. No smut, no politics, hence he became a huge film star there.
He travelled there regularly , to the end of his life.
 

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