First Black Superstar in the UK Died in Poverty After Royal Scandal Ruined His Career

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A music legend passed away penniless after becoming embroiled in a scandalous affair with a Royal Family member.

Leslie Hutchinson, known by his stage name Hutch, was celebrated as the UK's first black superstar and was the country's highest-paid star during his prime. His career spanned several decades, and he became a household name for his performances and contributions to the music industry. With hits like These Foolish Things and Begin the Beguine, Hutch won the admiration of King Edward VIII.

Hutch relocated from New York City to England in the late 1920s. Despite his immense popularity, he was often required to enter high-profile events through the servants' entrance due to his race. He also received no official recognition for being one of the first volunteers to entertain troops during World War II.

Hutch led a life filled with scandal. Although he married Ella Byrd in the early 1920s, he fathered eight children with seven different women. Rumors suggest that Hutch had affairs with Princess Marina, Duchess of Kent, singer Cole Porter, and Hollywood actresses Tallulah Bankhead and Merle Oberon. The situation escalated when he was accused of having an affair with Edwina Mountbatten - Countess Mountbatten of Burma, the wife of the king's cousin.

The news broke in a tabloid at the time, but the royals quickly filed a libel lawsuit. Despite the legal battle, the high-profile alleged affair effectively ended Hutch's music career. His son Chris labeled him a "hopeless father," and by the time of Hutch's death in 1969, he was "virtually penniless," with fewer than 50 individuals attending his funeral.

He passed away from pneumonia at New End Hospital in London.

Despite his tarnished reputation, Hutch was posthumously honored with a blue plaque in 2012, and it is reported that the iconic Downton Abbey character Jack Ross was inspired by the singer.

Key Details About Leslie Hutchinson

• Early Life and Career: Leslie Hutchinson, known as Hutch, was born in the United States and gained fame in the UK. He was considered the UK's first black superstar and was among the highest-paid performers of his time.

• Cultural Impact: His songs, such as These Foolish Things and Begin the Beguine, were widely popular and earned him admiration from notable figures, including King Edward VIII.

• Racial Challenges: Despite his success, Hutchinson faced racial discrimination. He often entered high-profile events through the servants' entrance because of his race.

• Military Service: He volunteered to entertain troops during World War II, but his contributions went unrecognized officially.

• Personal Life: Hutch had a complicated personal life. He married Ella Byrd in the early 1920s but had eight children with seven different women. Rumors of affairs with prominent figures, including members of the royal family, added to his controversial reputation.

• Scandal and Legal Issues: A scandal involving an alleged affair with Edwina Mountbatten led to a libel lawsuit by the royal family. This incident significantly impacted his career and public image.

• Later Years and Death: By the time of his death in 1969, Hutch was financially struggling and had few attendees at his funeral. He died from pneumonia at New End Hospital in London.

• Posthumous Recognition: In 2012, he was honored with a blue plaque, acknowledging his contributions to music and culture. Additionally, it is said that the character Jack Ross in Downton Abbey was inspired by him.

Legacy and Influence

Leslie Hutchinson's story is a mix of triumph and tragedy. His talent and contributions to the music industry were undeniable, yet his personal life and the scandals surrounding him overshadowed much of his legacy. Despite the challenges he faced, his impact on British culture and music remains significant. His life serves as a reminder of the complexities of fame, race, and personal relationships in the public eye.