John Trunley

John Thomas Trunley (14 October 1898 – 30 September 1944) was a British music hall and sideshow performer, widely known as The Fat Boy of Peckham.

Early life Trunley was born in Camberwell, London. He gained weight rapidly during infancy and reportedly weighed at seven months old. By the age of four, he weighed approximately . He was examined by surgeon Sir Frederick Treves, who is also known for treating Joseph Merrick, the "Elephant Man".

Career Trunley made his music hall debut in December 1903 at the Yarmouth Hippodrome, and later performed at venues including the Royal Theatre in Holborn.

He became a popular novelty act and toured across England under showmen such as Fred Karno and Buffalo Bill Cody.

Despite his early stage success, he was later required to attend school in Peckham. Reports from the period noted that he had a chest measurement of and a waist measurement of during childhood.

After the First World War, Trunley reportedly secured minor roles in early film productions.

Personal life Trunley married Florence Weeden (born 1899), and the couple had one child, also named John.

Death Trunley died on 30 September 1944 from pulmonary tuberculosis. He was buried at Camberwell New Cemetery.