Don Rickles was born on May 8, 1926, in Queens, New York. He grew up in a working-class Jewish neighborhood and developed a quick wit from a young age. After graduating from high school, Rickles enlisted in the U.S. Navy to serve during World War II. This experience would later influence his comedic style, as he often joked about his time in the military.
After returning from the war, Rickles pursued his passion for acting by studying at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. However, he soon realized that the competition in the acting world was fierce and decided to try his hand at stand-up comedy. Rickles began performing at hotels in the Catskill Mountains in New York, where he honed his skills as a comedian.
Don Rickles first gained national attention for his fearless and unapologetic comedy style when he made fun of Frank Sinatra during a performance at a nightclub in Miami Beach. Sinatra, impressed by Rickles' audacity, became a fan and encouraged other celebrities to see the young comic perform. Rickles quickly became known for his insult comedy and was dubbed "Mr. Warmth" for his ability to roast celebrities with humor and charm.
Rickles' success in the comedy world led to numerous television appearances, including frequent guest spots on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. He also became a regular fixture on The Dean Martin Celebrity Roast specials, where he roasted fellow celebrities with his sharp wit. In addition to his work in television, Rickles lent his voice to the character of Mr. Potato Head in the beloved Toy Story film series.
Don Rickles was married to his wife Barbara for over 45 years and they had two children together. His son Larry followed in his father's footsteps and produced the Emmy Award-winning HBO documentary Mr. Warmth: The Don Rickles Project, which celebrated his father's legendary career. Rickles was not only known for his comedy but also for his generosity and kindness towards his family and friends.
Don Rickles' comedic genius and fearless approach to comedy inspired generations of comedians, including the late Garry Shandling. His legacy lives on through his iconic performances and unforgettable humor, making him a true legend in the world of comedy.
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