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Don Rickles

For more than 35 years, funnyman Rickles has appeared in the top showrooms in Las Vegas and Atlantic City. He did not reach the top overnight, rather, like a train gathering steam, he gradually picked up speed and more material for his comedy act. But his appearance on Johnny Carson's Tonight Show in 1965 stands out as the moment of his breakthrough. Immediately following his performance on the Tonight Show, Rickles became the talk of the town. A fine actor who graduated from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York, Rickles frequently received rave reviews for his acting ability. Armed with the public's seal of approval as a comedian, it was only natural that he should move forward into theater and television.

He scored a major success when he appeared on The Dean Martin Show. He has since starred in primetime series on all four major networks. A highlight of his career came when he was invited by President Reagan to perform at the televised Inaugural Gala where he zinged the nation's dignitaries gathered for the occasion.

Still highly visible in television and motion pictures, Rickles had one of his best dramatic roles in Universal Pictures' Casino, directed by Martin Scorsese. Most recently, he lent his vocal talents to the character Cornwall in the animated feature Quest for Camelot.

One of his proudest moments was the dedication of the Barbara and Don Rickles Gymnasium at Sinai Temple in West Los Angeles. He enjoys a good game of golf, and an occasional set of tennis. He has also been voted among the nation's best-dressed men by the Custom Tailors Guild of America, and the Tailors Council of America.

He and his wife Barbara have two children, Mindy Beth and Lawrence Corey. Recently, they welcomed a new grandchild into their family.


Note: This profile was written in or before 2002.

Don Rickles Facts

Birth NameDonald Jay Rickles
OccupationActor
BirthdayMay 8, 1926 (97)
SignTaurus
BirthplaceNew York, New York, USA
Height5' 6" (1m68)  How tall is Don Rickles compared to you?

Selected Filmography

Toy Story
Toy Story 3
Toy Story 2
Toy Story of Terror! Compilation
Toy Story That Time Forgot
Small Fry
Hawaiian Vacation
Partysaurus Rex
Casino
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