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Gary MortonAmerican comedian, second husband of Lucille Ball
Date of Birth: 19.12.1924
Country:  USA |
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Biography of Gary Morton
Gary Morton, born Morton Goldapper in 1924 in New York City, was an American comedian and the second husband of Lucille Ball. Before meeting Lucille Ball, Morton had already become a fairly well-known stand-up comedian, performing mainly at resorts in the New York State's Borscht Belt. During World War II, Gary served in the army as part of an acting troupe, where he honed his talent for making people laugh.
Meeting Lucille Ball
In 1960, Morton met Lucille Ball during a blind date at the Copacabana nightclub in New York. Despite the fact that Lucille was 12 years older than him, their age difference did not hinder their budding romance. Lucille, who was already divorced from Desi Arnaz and at the peak of her career, was enchantingly beautiful. In 1961, Lucille and Gary got married at the Marble Collegiate Church in New York. It was not Morton's first marriage, as he had previously been married to actress Susan Morrow, but their marriage was annulled in 1957. Rumors circulated about Morton being a marriage swindler, leading the couple to sign a prenuptial agreement to dispel any negative suspicions.
Career alongside Lucille Ball
After getting married, Morton dedicated himself to his famous wife's career. He gave up his own club performances and became Lucille Ball's unwavering producer. In 1962, "The Lucy Show" premiered on television, with Morton being credited as the producer in over 20 episodes. In the late 60s and 70s, Gary was one of the creators of the series "Here's Lucy," in which he also appeared as an actor. It is known that Morton led a luxurious lifestyle, driving expensive cars, playing golf, and displaying all the trappings of a wealthy life. However, he had to work hard to maintain this lifestyle. In addition to his duties as an executive producer, he also warmed up the audience before his wife's performances.
Later Years and Death
After Lucille Ball's sudden death in 1989, Morton relocated to Palm Springs, California. Later, he married for the third time to Susie McAllister in 1996. On March 30, 1999, Morton passed away at the age of 74 from lung cancer in Palm Springs.
