Red Buttons American comedian and actor Date of Birth: 05.02.1919 Country: USA

1. Early Life and Rise to Fame
2. Broadway and Wartime Service
3. Television and Film Career
4. Later Career and Legacy

Early Life and Rise to Fame

Aaron Chwatt was born in New York City on February 5, 1919, to immigrant Jewish parents. At the age of 16, he landed a job as a doorman at the Ryan's Tavern on City Island in the Bronx. His distinctive red hair and uniform with shiny buttons earned him the nickname "Red Buttons" from the orchestra leader Charles "Dinty" Moore.

In the late 1930s, Buttons began performing under his unusual stage name with comedy partner Robert Alda. He appeared in vaudeville, including the Minsky's Burlesque shows of the four Minsky brothers.

Broadway and Wartime Service

In 1941, Buttons made his Broadway debut in "Admiral Had a Wife," a comedy that was scheduled to open on December 8, 1941. However, the attack on Pearl Harbor led to its cancellation. Despite the setback, Buttons debuted on Broadway in September 1942 in "Vicki" with Uta Hagen.

During World War II, Buttons entertained American troops throughout Europe. After the war, he returned to Broadway, where he had several successful runs.

Television and Film Career

Buttons launched his own variety series, "The Red Buttons Show," in 1952. The show ran for three seasons and featured his signature catchphrase, "Strange things are happening."

In 1957, Buttons starred as Airman Joe Kelly in Joshua Logan's "Sayonara." His performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, alongside his co-star Miiko Taka. The film marked a departure from his previous comedic roles.

Later Career and Legacy

Following his Oscar win, Buttons gained more recognition in Hollywood. He starred in notable films such as "The Poseidon Adventure," "Hatari!," and "The Longest Day." He also appeared in episodes of popular television shows like "One Step Beyond," "Little House on the Prairie," and "ER."

In 1966, Buttons had another short-lived sitcom, "The Double Life of Henry Phyfe." His last regular television role was as Al Baker on "Knots Landing."

Red Buttons died from vascular disease on July 13, 2006, at his home in Los Angeles. He was ranked No. 71 on Comedy Central's list of "100 Greatest Stand-Up Comics of All Time." A star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame commemorates his legacy as a comedic icon.