If you grew up in the days when the classic rock era was actually “current rock,” then you undoubtedly saw scores of appearances by the actor-comedian known as “Mr. Warmth.” We’re talking, of course, about Don Rickles, the insult comic, born on May 8, 1926, in the New York City borough of Queens, and a constant presence on television screens (and occasionally the silver screen).
Most accounts peg his appearances on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson at over one hundred. But he’s also well known for his spots on the various Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts, his TV series C.P.O. Sharkey and various feature films, most prominently in Kelly’s Heroes (with Clint Eastwood) and, later, serving as the voice of Mr. Potato Head in the Toy Story movies.
Rickles, who died at 90 at his home in Los Angeles on April 6, 2017, was beloved for his zingers which he happily offered to anyone he came in contact with, whether it was a first meeting or a fellow guest on Carson.
When news of Rickles’ passing arrived, his fellow comics took to social media to share their grief and appreciation. David Letterman wrote: “Such a professional, such a gentleman. I already miss him.” Mel Brooks, who would know, tweeted: “One of the bravest, funniest, and sweetest guys that ever performed.”
On November 12, 1976, Frank Sinatra was a guest on The Tonight Show. Carson asks The Voice an interesting question: “When you’re in a romantic mood… when you’re trying to make out… whose records do you put on?” After Sinatra’s answer, and one minute into the clip, Rickles walks in, unannounced.
After Rickles teases Sinatra and Carson for a while, Frank asks Johnny, “Can I tell a story?” It’s at the four-minute mark of our Classic Video.
