By: Valerie Milano & Judy Shields
Photos: THT
Hollywood, CA (The Hollywood Times) 4/10/27 – Hollywood Museum Founder & President, Donelle Dadigan, said “We are thrilled to showcase the entertainment contributions of one of the most popular and iconic film comedy teams of all time, LAUREL & HARDY. This new exhibition here at The Hollywood Museum in the historic Max Factor Bldg will feature original costumes from their films, props, movie posters, vintage photographs, and collectibles from LAUREL & HARDY’s Legendary career.”
Click below to see our red carpet interviews:
Hollywood rolled out the red carpet on April 9, 2026, as the Hollywood Museum unveiled its newest exhibit, 100 Years of Laughter: Laurel and Hardy, a heartfelt and star-studded tribute to one of the most beloved comedy duos in cinematic history.
Set inside the iconic Max Factor Building, the evening brought together an impressive mix of actors, historians, authors, and devoted fans, all united by a shared appreciation for the timeless brilliance of Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy.
At the center of the evening was Donelle Dadigan, Founder and President of the Hollywood Museum, who welcomed guests with warmth, humor, and reverence for comedy’s golden age.
In her remarks, Dadigan paid tribute not only to Laurel and Hardy, but to the broader legacy of classic comedy, referencing iconic acts such as Bud Abbott and Lou Costello, The Three Stooges, The Marx Brothers, and notably acknowledging film historian and Laurel and Hardy expert Bob Satterfield for his continued dedication to preserving and sharing the legacy of classic comedy.
One of the evening’s most touching moments came when she shared greetings from Jacqueline White, Laurel and Hardy’s last living leading lady. At 103 years young, White, who now resides in Houston, continues to receive fan mail weekly, a testament to the enduring love for this era of film.
“She wished she could be here tonight,” Dadigan shared, “and wanted everyone to know how much she cherished her time working with Stan and Ollie.”
The red carpet buzzed with energy as a diverse group of personalities arrived to celebrate the exhibit. Among those I had the pleasure of interviewing were:
- Michele Lee
- Tyrone DuBose
- Rico Anderson
- Geoffrey Mark
- Kathy Garver
- Alice Amter
Each shared personal reflections on comedy, legacy, and the lasting influence of Laurel and Hardy on modern entertainment. There was a consistent theme throughout the evening: their work still resonates, not just as nostalgia, but as a foundation for comedic storytelling today.
A particularly meaningful presence was the granddaughter of Stan Laurel, representing a living connection to the duo’s remarkable legacy, reminding everyone in attendance that this history is not just cinematic, but deeply personal.
The exhibit itself is a rich and immersive journey into the world of Laurel and Hardy. Guests were treated to an extraordinary collection of original costumes, props, posters, scripts, and rare memorabilia.
Highlights include:
- Costumes from films like Way Out West and Bonnie Scotland
- Iconic bowler hats worn by Laurel and Hardy
- Stan Laurel’s personal makeup case
- Props from beloved films including Brats and Sons of the Desert
Many of these pieces were generously loaned by devoted fans and members of the Sons of the Desert, the official Laurel and Hardy appreciation society.
Dadigan humorously clarified during her speech, “And just to be clear… not anything else, we’re all safe here,” drawing laughter from the crowd.
The evening also paid tribute to the passionate fan community that helped bring the exhibit to life. Special recognition was given to the late collector Danny Bacher, whose remarkable collection is featured in the exhibit. Following his passing last year, his widow ensured that many of his treasured items were shipped from New Jersey to be included in this celebration.
Dadigan also acknowledged key contributors Steve and Doug for their dedication in curating the exhibit, emphasizing that this showcase is truly a labor of love.
What stood out most throughout the evening was a shared sentiment: preserving comedy history matters.
“Tonight is not just about an exhibit,” Dadigan said. “It’s about community, legacy, and love for something that has made the world laugh for generations.”
And that message rang true, from the red carpet to the exhibit floor.
As guests explored the collection and shared stories of their favorite Laurel and Hardy moments, it became clear that their humor continues to transcend generations, cultures, and time itself.
100 Years of Laughter: Laurel and Hardy opens to the public at the Hollywood Museum and is expected to draw visitors from around the world.
For anyone who has ever laughed at a perfectly timed pratfall or a bewildered double take, this exhibit is more than a trip down memory lane, it’s a celebration of the enduring power of laughter.
Our red carpet coverage:
The exhibit will feature Laurel and Hardy costumes from such films as “The Bull Fighter”, “Bonnie Scotland”, and “Way Out West,” Props from the films “Brats,” Sons Of the Deserts and Fezzes, Stan Laurel’s Make Up Case, Oliver Hardy and Stan Laurels iconic Boller Hats, Posters, Scripts, original photos, original merchandise from their film career.
REGULAR HOURS: Wednesday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
TICKETS: $15 Adults: $12 Seniors (62+): $12 for students with ID and $5 Children under 5.
ADDRESS: 1660 N. Highland Ave. (at Hollywood Blvd.), Los Angeles, CA 90028
MUSEUM INFO: www.TheHollywoodMuseum.
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ABOUT THE HOLLYWOOD MUSEUM: The Hollywood Museum, located in the historic Max Factor Building is the official museum of Hollywood and a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation showcasing more than 10,000 Authentic Show Business Treasures, spotlighting 100 years of Hollywood history – from the Silents to Talkies. The museum features Hollywood’s Golden Era of Film Noir, Television, and its Pioneer Years, through the rebellious 60s, special effects 70s, evolving 80s, involved 90s, technological 2000s, and beyond to current day heartthrobs! The Hollywood Museum’s exhibits showcase the best in film, network and cable television, and new digital platforms featuring iconic and fan favorites! The Hollywood Museum offers visitors the most extensive collection of Hollywood memorabilia in the world – featuring the glamour of Hollywood legends and stars – past, present and in the making. The Hollywood Museum includes one-of-a-kind costumes, props, photographs, scripts, stars’ car collections, personal artifacts, posters, and memorabilia from favorite stars, films and TV shows. Located in the heart of Hollywood, at the corner of Hollywood Blvd and Highland Ave, just steps from the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Museum has been named the #1 top tourist attraction in Hollywood by LA Weekly and recently the #1 spot on “Things to Do” by leading travel bloggers, as well as one of the “Top 10” Museums in LA by the LA Tourism and Convention Board and Trip Advisor.
