Phạm Bằng (1931 – 2016), full name Phạm Văn Bằng, is a Vietnamese comedian. He is famous for his many comedic roles in VTV3's "Weekend Meetup" series (Gặp nhau cuối tuần, 2006-2010) and the Tet comedy series "Buried Words" (Chôn nhời). Starting his career in theater without a background, Phạm Bằng chose not to attend the University of Theater and Performing Arts of Hanoi (despite being accepted) due to financial difficulties. He instead joined the Hanoi Troupe, which specialize in various forms of performance including music, dance, circus, and drama. In 1964, director Nguyễn Đình Nghi invited Phạm Bằng to participate in plays. He first became famous for playing villains. After that, director Trần Hoạt started to produce a few comedies, and Phạm Bằng began participating in them also. From the end of 1974 till the beginning of 1975, he was transferred to the Central Theater Troupe and f…
