Born: July 12, 1908 in New York City, New York, USADied: March 27, 2002Active: 1914-2000Birth Name: Mendel Berlinger
About Milton Berle
Milton Berle, born Mendel Berlinger, began his remarkable entertainment career as a child actor in silent films during the 1910s, appearing in numerous productions before transitioning to vaudeville and Broadway. After establishing himself as a successful stage comedian and radio personality, Berle revolutionized television in 1948 when he became the host of NBC's 'Texaco Star Theater,' earning him the nickname 'Mr. Television' and credited with selling more television sets than anyone else. His variety show format, featuring slapstick comedy, celebrity guests, and elaborate costumes, set the standard for television entertainment and dominated Tuesday night ratings for years. Berle continued his entertainment career through film appearances, guest spots on TV shows, and nightclub performances well into his later years, becoming one of America's most beloved comedians. His career spanned over eight decades, from silent film child actor to television pioneer, making him one of the few entertainers to successfully bridge the gap between vaudeville, radio, film, and television. Berle's influence on American comedy and television broadcasting remains immeasurable, and he was honored with numerous awards recognizing his contributions to entertainment.
The Craft
On Screen
Known for his energetic slapstick comedy, rapid-fire delivery, and masterful use of props and costumes. Berle specialized in broad physical comedy combined with witty one-liners, often dressing in drag for comedic effect. His style was heavily influenced by vaudeville traditions, incorporating sight gags, pratfalls, and audience interaction that translated perfectly to the intimate medium of television.
Milestones
Child actor in silent films (1914-1920s)
Broadway star in 'Ziegfeld Follies of 1943'
Host of 'Texaco Star Theater' (1948-1955)
First major television star earning nickname 'Mr. Television'
Emmy Award winner for Outstanding Kinescoped Personality (1950)
Kennedy Center Honors recipient (1995)
Best Known For
Iconic Roles
Host of 'Texaco Star Theater'
Various comedic characters in films and TV shows
Must-See Films
Always Leave Them Laughing
1949
Where's Charley?
1952
It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World
1963
The Oscar
1966
The Muppet Movie
1979
awards
Emmy Award for Outstanding Kinescoped Personality (1950),Emmy Award for Most Outstanding Kinescoped Personality (1951),Special Emmy Award (1979),Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award (1988),Kennedy Center Honors (1995)
nominations
Emmy nominations for Best Comedian or Comedienne (1952-1956),Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor (1950)
honors
Hollywood Walk of Fame star (1960),Television Academy Hall of Fame (1984),National Radio Hall of Fame (1988),Jewish American Hall of Fame (1998)
personalLife
Milton Berle was married twice and had two adopted sons. His first marriage to Joyce Matthews ended in divorce after 12 years, during which they adopted two children. His second marriage to publicist Ruth Cosgrove lasted 40 years until her death in 1989. Berle was known for his womanizing in his early years and was a fixture in Hollywood social circles. He was also a dedicated philanthropist, supporting numerous charities throughout his life, particularly those focused on children's welfare and entertainment industry causes.
Attended Public School 1 in Manhattan, began professional acting career before completing formal education
studioAffiliations
Paramount Pictures,MGM,Universal Pictures
frequentCollaborators
Arnold Stang,Ruth Gilbert,Sidney Sheldon,Fred Coe
mentors
Ed Wynn,Jack Benny,George Burns
protégés
Johnny Carson,Joey Bishop,Dick Van Dyke
culturalImpact
Milton Berle's impact on American culture and television cannot be overstated. As 'Mr. Television,' he was instrumental in the rapid adoption of television sets in American households during the late 1940s and early 1950s. His Tuesday night variety show became a national phenomenon, with restaurants and movie theaters reportedly closing because everyone was home watching 'Uncle Miltie.' Berle pioneered many television comedy techniques that became standard, including the use of a live studio audience, celebrity guest appearances, and the integration of commercial breaks into the show's content. His success demonstrated that television could be a viable medium for major entertainment stars, paving the way for countless future television personalities.
legacy
Milton Berle's legacy as a television pioneer and comedy innovator endures decades after his death. He fundamentally changed American entertainment habits and proved television's power as a mass medium. His comedic style influenced generations of performers, from early TV hosts to modern stand-up comedians. The annual 'Milton Berle Memorial Award' continues to honor excellence in comedy. Berle's career trajectory from child actor to television superstar represents the evolution of American entertainment itself, and his archives are preserved at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences as a vital part of entertainment history.
influence
Berle's influence extends across multiple entertainment mediums. His vaudeville-inspired comedy style influenced television hosts from Johnny Carson to David Letterman. His use of costumes and drag comedy paved the way for performers like Flip Wilson and RuPaul. His variety show format became the template for countless programs, from 'The Carol Burnett Show' to 'Saturday Night Live.' Many comedians, including Jerry Lewis and Red Skelton, cited Berle as a major influence on their careers. His ability to transition between mediums demonstrated the versatility required for entertainment success in the modern era.
trivia
Appeared in his first film at age 5 in 'The Perils of Pauline' (1914),Won a talent contest at age 12 by impersonating Charlie Chaplin,His nickname 'Uncle Miltie' came from his TV show persona,Was one of the first celebrities to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame,Known for his extensive collection of risqué jokes and anecdotes,Hosted the very first Emmy Awards ceremony in 1949,His TV show was credited with selling one million television sets in its first year,Was a regular performer at the Friars Club and known for his roast appearances,Appeared as himself in over 50 films and TV shows throughout his career,His autobiography 'B.S. I Love You' was a bestseller in 1975
famousQuotes
I'm often asked why there's so much sex on television. I say, 'Because there's so much sex in life!',If evolution really works, how come mothers only have two hands?,Laughter is an instant vacation.,I live by this credo: If it's not fun, I'm not doing it.,Television is a new medium. It's called a medium because nothing is well done.
controversies
Berle faced some controversy in his later years regarding claims about his early career and age. There were also occasional disputes over joke ownership with other comedians, a common issue in the comedy world. His womanizing reputation in earlier years occasionally drew public criticism, though this was typical for many male stars of his era.
