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Don RicklesAmerican satirist, television, film and stage actor, TV host
Date of Birth: 08.05.1926
Country:  USA |
Content:
Early Life
Don Rickles was born on May 8, 1926, in Queens, New York, to Jewish parents. His father, Max, immigrated from Lithuania, while his mother, Etta, had Austrian ancestry. Rickles grew up in Jackson Heights and enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1944, serving during World War II. After the war, he attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and pursued acting, but his career failed to take off.
Rise to Comedy
Disillusioned by his lack of acting success, Rickles turned to comedy in the early 1950s. He became known for his insult comedy, responding to hecklers with sharp and witty insults. Over time, these insults became an essential part of his act, earning him a reputation as a "hockey puck" comedian.
Television and Film Career
Rickles' television presence began in the 1960s with appearances on variety and talk shows. He starred in two short-lived sitcoms, "The Don Rickles Show" (1968) and "C.P.O. Sharkey" (1976-1978) before becoming a frequent guest on "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson." Rickles' film career included roles in "Run Silent, Run Deep" (1958), "Enter Laughing" (1967), and "Casino" (1995). He also voiced Mr. Potato Head in the "Toy Story" franchise.
Personal Life
Rickles married Barbara Sklar in 1965. They had two children, Mindy and Larry. Rickles became close friends with gangster "Crazy Joe" Gallo, despite being warned not to do so. He also counted Bob Newhart among his closest friends and often vacationed with him and their wives.
Later Years and Legacy
Rickles remained active in comedy throughout his life, performing on stage and appearing on television shows. He died of kidney failure on April 6, 2017, at the age of 90. Rickles' legacy as a legendary comedian and master of insult comedy continues to inspire laughter and admiration to this day.
