Jackie Gleason
Actor
About Jackie Gleason
Jackie Gleason, born Herbert John Gleason, was one of America's most beloved entertainers who rose from humble beginnings in Brooklyn to become a television and film icon. His career began in the 1940s with small film roles and nightclub performances, but he truly found his calling in the emerging medium of television. Gleason created and starred in 'The Honeymooners,' a groundbreaking sitcom that showcased his genius as both a comedian and dramatic actor. His film career included memorable performances in 'The Hustler' (1961), where he played Minnesota Fats opposite Paul Newman, earning him an Academy Award nomination. Beyond acting, Gleason was a talented composer and conductor, releasing several successful mood music albums. His larger-than-life persona, characterized by his booming voice and physical comedy, made him a household name. Despite his success, Gleason remained deeply connected to his working-class roots, which informed much of his comedic material. He continued performing until his death in 1987, leaving behind a legacy as one of America's greatest entertainers.
The Craft
On Screen
Known for his larger-than-life persona, booming voice, and masterful physical comedy. Gleason excelled at both broad comedy and subtle dramatic performances, often portraying working-class characters with remarkable authenticity. His timing was impeccable, and he could switch from hilarious to heartbreaking in an instant.
Milestones
- Created and starred in 'The Honeymooners' (1955-1956)
- Academy Award nomination for 'The Hustler' (1961)
- Starred in 'Smokey and the Bandit' trilogy (1977-1983)
- Hosted 'The Jackie Gleason Show' for 20 years
- Composed and recorded numerous music albums
- Received star on Hollywood Walk of Fame (1960)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Must-See Films
Accolades
Won
- Emmy Award for Outstanding Continued Performance by an Actor in a Series (1955)
- Emmy Award for Best Continuing Performance by a Comedian in a Series (1956)
- Golden Globe for Best Actor (1962)
Nominated
- Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor - 'The Hustler' (1961)
- Emmy nominations throughout the 1950s and 1960s
- Golden Globe nominations
Special Recognition
- Hollywood Walk of Fame star (1960)
- Inducted into Television Hall of Fame (1985)
- Inducted into Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Hall of Fame
- Brooklyn Academy of Music named theater in his honor
Working Relationships
Worked Often With
Studios
Why They Matter
Impact on Culture
Jackie Gleason revolutionized television comedy with 'The Honeymooners,' creating one of the first sitcoms focused on working-class characters. His portrayal of Ralph Kramden became an archetype for the American everyman, influencing generations of comedians and actors. Gleason's success proved that television could launch and sustain major entertainment careers, paving the way for future TV stars. His music albums, particularly the 'mood music' series, were commercially successful and helped establish the concept of background music for everyday life. The catchphrases he popularized, such as 'One of these days, POW! Right in the kisser!' and 'How sweet it is!' became part of the American cultural lexicon.
Lasting Legacy
Jackie Gleason's legacy endures through his timeless performances and the continued popularity of 'The Honeymooners' in syndication. He demonstrated that comedians could also be serious dramatic actors, earning critical acclaim for his role in 'The Hustler.' The Jackie Gleason Theater of the Performing Arts in Miami stands as a testament to his cultural impact. His influence can be seen in the work of comedians who blend physical comedy with emotional depth. Gleason's ability to connect with audiences through authentic portrayals of working-class life created a template for relatable comedy that continues to influence television today.
Who They Inspired
Gleason's improvisational skills and ability to ad-lib influenced generations of comedians. His success in both comedy and drama showed performers they didn't have to be typecast. The format of 'The Honeymooners' influenced countless sitcoms, particularly those focusing on blue-collar families. His approach to character development, creating flawed but lovable protagonists, became a standard in comedy writing. Many actors cite Gleason's ability to switch between comedy and drama seamlessly as a major influence on their own careers.
Off Screen
Jackie Gleason married Genevieve Halford in 1936, and they had two daughters before divorcing in 1970. He later married Beverly McKittrick in 1975, which ended in divorce in 1978, and then married Marilyn Taylor in 1975. Despite his public persona as a loud, boisterous comedian, friends described him as introspective and private. He was known for his generosity and often helped struggling performers. Gleason struggled with health issues in his later years, including diabetes and heart problems, but continued working almost until his death.
Education
Attended Bushwick High School in Brooklyn, dropped out to pursue entertainment career
Family
- Genevieve Halford (1936-1970)
- Beverly McKittrick (1975-1978)
- Marilyn Taylor (1975-1987)
Did You Know?
- Was offered the role of Archie Bunker in 'All in the Family' but turned it down
- Composed all the music for his 'mood music' albums despite having no formal musical training
- Was an avid golfer and often played with celebrities and presidents
- Had a fear of flying that limited his international travel
- Owned a custom-built bus nicknamed 'The Great One' for touring
- Was a close friend of President Richard Nixon
- Once worked as a carnival bouncer and pool hall manager
- His trademark 'And away we go!' catchphrase was improvised during a live show
- Was left-handed but often played right-handed characters on screen
- Had a photographic memory for scripts and dialogue
In Their Own Words
How sweet it is!
One of these days, POW! Right in the kisser!
To the moon, Alice!
And away we go!
I'm the greatest thing that ever lived!
You're a riot, Alice, a regular riot!
Baby, you're the greatest!
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Jackie Gleason?
Jackie Gleason was an iconic American actor, comedian, and musician best known for creating and starring in 'The Honeymooners' and for his dramatic role as Minnesota Fats in 'The Hustler.' He was one of television's first major stars and hosted 'The Jackie Gleason Show' for two decades.
What films is Jackie Gleason best known for?
Gleason is most famous for 'The Hustler' (1961), 'Smokey and the Bandit' (1977), 'Requiem for a Heavyweight' (1962), and 'Gigot' (1962). However, his most enduring legacy remains 'The Honeymooners' television series.
When was Jackie Gleason born and when did he die?
Jackie Gleason was born on February 26, 1916, in Brooklyn, New York, and died on June 24, 1987, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, at the age of 71 from complications of colon cancer and diabetes.
What awards did Jackie Gleason win?
Gleason won two Emmy Awards for his work on 'The Jackie Gleason Show' (1955 and 1956), a Golden Globe for Best Actor in 1962, and received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor for 'The Hustler.' He was also inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 1985.
What was Jackie Gleason's acting style?
Gleason's acting style combined broad physical comedy with deep emotional authenticity. He was known for his booming voice, expressive face, and ability to seamlessly transition between hilarious comedy and poignant drama. His portrayal of working-class characters was particularly praised for its realism and heart.
Did Jackie Gleason really compose music?
Yes, despite having no formal musical training, Gleason composed and conducted all the music for his popular 'mood music' albums. These records, including 'Music for Lovers Only' and 'Music, Martinis, and Memories,' sold millions of copies and demonstrated his remarkable musical talent.
What was Jackie Gleason's relationship with Art Carney?
Jackie Gleason and Art Carney had one of television's most celebrated partnerships as Ralph Kramden and Ed Norton in 'The Honeymooners.' Their chemistry was so perfect that Gleason refused to do the show without Carney, and their friendship extended off-screen throughout their careers.
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Films
1 film
