Lionel Logue facts for kids
Lionel George Logue (born February 26, 1880 – died April 12, 1953) was an Australian expert who helped people speak better. He was known as a speech therapist. He successfully helped King George VI, who had a strong stammer. A stammer is when someone repeats sounds or words, or pauses for a long time when trying to speak.
Lionel George Logue was born in College Town, Adelaide, South Australia. This was on February 26, 1880. Logue married Myrtle Gruenert in 1907. They stayed married until her death in 1945. They had three children together.
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Helping a Future King
Before he became king, Albert, Duke of York really disliked speaking in public. This was because he had a very bad stammer. His speech at a big event called the British Empire Exhibition in 1925 was very difficult for him. It was also hard for the people listening. This experience made the Duke determined to find a way to control his stammer. So, he hired Logue in 1926.
Logue's Special Methods
Logue found that the Duke's voice box and breathing muscles were not working well together. To fix this, Logue gave the Duke daily voice exercises. These exercises helped the Duke relax. They also stopped his muscles from tensing up when he spoke. Because of Logue's help, the Duke only had small hesitations in his speech sometimes. By 1927, he was speaking with much more confidence. He even gave a speech at the opening of the Old Parliament House in Canberra without stammering.
A Lasting Friendship
Logue continued to work with the Duke through the 1930s and 1940s. He used fun exercises like tongue-twisters. These helped the Duke practice for important speeches. This included his coronation, when he officially became king. Logue also helped him with his radio broadcasts to the British Empire during the Second World War. The two men became good friends. They remained friends until the King passed away.
Later Life and Legacy
Logue died in London, England on April 12, 1953. He was 73 years old. His funeral was held on April 17, 1953, at Holy Trinity, Brompton. After the service, his body was cremated.
Logue's story was made into a movie. Actor Geoffrey Rush played him in the 2010 film, The King's Speech. This movie was directed by Tom Hooper.
Images for kids
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Logue with Myrtle Gruenert at the time of their engagement in Perth in 1906
See also
In Spanish: Lionel Logue para niños
