Erin Fleming

Description

Erin Fleming (August 13, 1941–April 15, 2003) was a minor actress who was best known as the companion and care-giver to Groucho Marx in his final years. <p>Fleming appeared in minor roles in five films from 1965 through 1976, during which time she became acquainted with Groucho Marx and moved into his house. Her influence on Groucho was controversial; many close to Groucho admitted that she did a lot of work on his behalf to revive his popularity and have him awarded an honorary Academy Award during his lifetime, but others, including Groucho's son, Arthur Marx, described her in Svengali-esque terms. In the years leading up to Groucho's death in 1977, Groucho's heirs filed several lawsuits against her. One allegation leveled against Fleming was that she was determined to sell Groucho's favorite car, a Cadillac, against his wishes. When Groucho protested, it was said, Fleming threatened, "I will slap you from here to Pittsburgh." <p>The court battles dragged into the early 80s, but...