BIOGRAPHY
Kaplan Kaye is a multifaceted British entertainer whose career spans acting, music, songwriting, and charitable leadership. Born in 1949 in Watford, Hertfordshire, he is the son of renowned actor and entertainer Davy Kaye. Kaplan trained at the Corona Stage Academy, laying the foundation for a lifelong journey in the performing arts.
Early Acting Career
Kaplan's television debut came in 1958, portraying Young Scrooge in A Christmas Carol, part of the Tales from Dickens series. Throughout the 1960s, he appeared in numerous British television programs, including The Charlie Drake Show, William, The Saint, Armchair Theatre, Z-Cars, and Journey to the Unknown. His film credits from this period include roles in Corridors of Blood (1958), Passionate Summer (1958), Carlton-Browne of the F.O. (1959), Night Train for Inverness (1960), and The Whisperers (1967).
Musical Endeavours
In addition to acting, Kaplan pursued a career in music as a singer, songwriter, and musician. He released several singles in the 1960s and 1970s, such as "Do You Believe in Magic" (1968) and "I (Who Have Nothing)" (1976). In 1982, under the pseudonym "The Brat," he co-wrote and performed the novelty hit "Chalk Dust – The Umpire Strikes Back," which reached No. 19 on the UK Singles Chart. Kaplan's songwriting prowess was further recognised in 1994 when he won the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors (BASCA) award for Best British Song at the Cavan International Song Festival with "You Will Find Me There." His song "Take Me With You," originally a hit for Lyn Christopher, was sampled in LL Cool J's 2009 track "Feel My Heartbeat," featuring 50 Cent.
Live Performances and Collaborations
Kaplan has maintained a dynamic presence in live entertainment, performing in various theatrical productions and musical acts. He is one half of the ukulele duo The Ukaye Ukes, alongside Bill Dare, delivering performances that blend music and comedy.
The Grand Order of Water Rats
Kaplan's dedication to the entertainment industry extends beyond performance. He has been an active member of the Grand Order of Water Rats, a prestigious British showbusiness fraternity and charity. Kaplan served as King Rat from 2006 to 2008 and was honoured as "Rat of the Year" in 2004. His commitment to the organisation continues in his current role as Preceptor, contributing to its philanthropic endeavours
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