Bill Dana was born William Szathmary on May 5, 1924 in Quincy, Massachusetts. He developed a passion for comedy at a young age and began performing in various New York nightclubs. It was during this time that he created one of his most famous comedic characters, José Jiménez, a heavily accented Bolivian who would later become a staple on The Ed Sullivan Show.
Bill Dana's big break came when he landed a recurring role on The Ed Sullivan Show, where he would perform as José Jiménez to great acclaim. His unique brand of humor and distinctive character quickly endeared him to audiences across the country. Bill Dana's comedic talents were not limited to his portrayal of José Jiménez, however. He went on to host his own late-night talk show and even wrote the animated TV-movie Alice in Wonderland, in which he voiced The White Knight.
In 1981, Bill Dana married Evelyn Shular, with whom he shared many happy years. Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Bill Dana remained a devoted husband and family man. His kindness and humility were evident to all who knew him, and he was beloved by both his fans and colleagues.
Even after his passing, Bill Dana's legacy lives on in the world of comedy. His iconic character José Jiménez continues to be remembered and celebrated, and his contributions to the entertainment industry are still appreciated by audiences old and new. Bill Dana's impact on comedy and television cannot be overstated, and he will always be remembered as a true pioneer in his field.