Don Rickles
Don Rickles is one of the most recognized American Actors of the Silent Generation generation, remembered for a career spanning 72 years.
American stand-up comedian (1926–2017)
"Don Rickles' defining career moment was his breakthrough in the Las Vegas comedy scene in the early 1960s, where his unique insult comedy style captivated audiences." — About Don Rickles
| Metric | Don Rickles | Avg Actor | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age | 90 | 53 | +37 yrs |
| Career length | 72 yrs | ~35 yrs | +37 yrs |
| Based on 4322 Actor profiles in our database | |||
See also
Facts about Don Rickles
Did you know that despite his famously abrasive stage persona, Don Rickles was known by friends and family as a genuinely kind, generous, and loving man off-stage?
- Before finding fame, Rickles worked as a milkman in New York and struggled for years as a dramatic actor.
- He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II from 1944 to 1946, stationed aboard a submarine chaser.
- His iconic insult comedy style began out of frustration during early stand-up gigs, initially to silence hecklers.
- Frank Sinatra became a huge fan after Rickles playfully insulted him, which significantly boosted his career.
- He was the very last guest to perform on "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson" in 1992.
Don Rickles' defining career moment was his breakthrough in the Las Vegas comedy scene in the early 1960s, where his unique insult comedy style captivated audiences. His memorable interactions with Frank Sinatra, who became a vocal supporter, solidified his status as a headliner, leading to widespread recognition and numerous television appearances.
Rickles revolutionized insult comedy, establishing a unique brand of humor that was both cutting and endearing, influencing generations of comedians. His "Mr. Warmth" persona created an enduring cultural impact, demonstrating that humor could be found in playful antagonism.