This week comedy legend Don Rickles passed away at the age of 90 due to kidney failure. His prolific career in comedy, television, and film spanned through multiple decades, seeing him rise from night clubs to the world stage. He gained national prominence through his working relationship with pop singer Frank Sinatra and his many appearances on ‘the Tonight Show’ with Johnny Carson. Rickle’s electric comedy style was unfiltered wit and a natural ability to cut into any sacred cow that existed in pop culture and beyond. To be insulted by him was a sincere and dignified honor. He gained the ironic nickname ‘Mr. Warmth’ but to those close to him he was regarded as a truly endearing and caring man who stayed loyal to his craft. No matter who he was joking about, Rickles will be remembered as one of the greatest comedians who ever lived.
If your unaware of his work, seek out the following
- Any of Rickle’s 100 appearances on ‘The Tonight Show’ as he’s just best late night TV show guest
- His classic alum ‘Hello Dummy’ is available on iTunes, Spotify, Google Music and other streaming services,
- Read his autobiography ‘Rickle’s Boook’ is a must-read if you want to what makes a comic a comic
- Watch him in the ‘Toy Story’ series, ‘Casino’ and his improvised performance in the R-rated comedy ‘Dirty Work’
- Spike TV’s tribute ‘One Night Only: Don Rickles’ and the Jon Landis-directed documentary ‘Mr. Warmth’
Late night host Jimmy Kimmel gave a touching and emotional tribute this week, shining a light on Rickle’s sharp in-the-moment wit and his influence on many modern day entertainers.
Rickles roasts Sinatra as only he can.
