Red Buttons
Red Buttons lived from 1919 to 2006, a career spanning 69 years. Their work continues to be celebrated by fans worldwide.
A member of the Silent Generation generation, Red Buttons was born in 1919 in New York City, New York, USA and went on to become a celebrated Actor.
Although Red Buttons is best known as a stand-up comic, he is also a successful songwriter, an Academy Award-winning actor (and has been nominated for two Golden Globe awards) and an accomplished singer. Born Aaron Chwatt on February 5, 1919 (Aquarius) in New York City's Lower East Side, stood at a height of 5' 6" (1.68 m). Buttons (who got his name from a uniform he wore while working as a singing bellhop), also known as Cpl. Red Buttons, started his show-business career singing on street corne
"His dramatic turn in the 1957 film Sayonara stands out as a defining career moment." — About Red Buttons
| Metric | Red Buttons | Avg Actor | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age | 87 | 53 | +34 yrs |
| Career length | 69 yrs | ~35 yrs | +34 yrs |
| Based on 3888 Actor profiles in our database | |||
See also
Facts about Red Buttons
Did you know that Red Buttons won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his dramatic role in the 1957 film Sayonara, despite being primarily known as a comedian?
- His stage name "Red Buttons" originated from a uniform he wore as a singing bellhop at age 16.
- During World War II, he served in the U.S. Army Air Forces and performed in entertainment for troops.
- He replaced Frank Sinatra in the band of saxophonist Milt Herth in the early stages of his career.
- His famous comedic routine "Never had a cross word" became a popular catchphrase.
- He was a frequent and popular participant in celebrity roasts at the New York Friars Club.
His dramatic turn in the 1957 film Sayonara stands out as a defining career moment. Playing the role of Joe Kelly, he earned an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, proving his versatility beyond his comedic roots and establishing him as a serious dramatic actor. This role also garnered him a Golden Globe nomination.
Red Buttons left a legacy as a versatile entertainer who seamlessly transitioned from stand-up comedy to acclaimed dramatic acting. He is remembered for his unique comedic style and his ability to captivate audiences across various mediums.