Red Buttons: The Iconic Actor and Comedian
Career Highlights and Major Works
Red Buttons, born Aaron Chwatt on February 5, 1919, is renowned for his Oscar-winning supporting role in the 1957 film
Sayonara, as well as his Golden Globe win for the same performance. He is also recognized for his distinctive comedic style, which captivated audiences on both the big and small screens, particularly through his "Never Got a Dinner" comedy monologues that made him a fixture on television in the 1970s.
Early Life and Beginnings
Born to Russo-Polish Jewish immigrants Sophie (née Baker) and Michael Chwatt in Manhattan, New York, Buttons grew up in a humble household. At the tender age of 16, he began working as an entertaining bellhop at Ryans Tavern in City Island, the Bronx, New York. It was during this period that orchestra leader Charles Dinty Moore coined the nickname "Red Buttons," due to his red hair and the large, shiny buttons on his bellhop uniform.
Rise to Prominence
Buttons' early career saw him work as a straight man to
Robert Alda on the Borscht Belt, a popular vacation destination for Jewish Americans. In 1939, he landed a job at Minskys Burlesque, where he eventually became a regular performer. His big break came in 1941 when Jos Ferrer chose him to appear in the Broadway show
The Admiral Had a Wife, a farce set in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Although the show never opened due to the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, Buttons would later joke that the Japanese only attacked to keep him off Broadway.
Wartime and Broadway Debut
In September 1942, Buttons made his Broadway debut in
Vickie alongside Ferrer and
Uta Hagen. Later that year, he appeared in the Minskys show
Wine, Women and Song, which would become the last classic burlesque show in New York City history. Buttons was on stage when the show was raided, marking a pivotal moment in his career.
Philosophical Contributions and Beliefs
Throughout his life, Buttons' humor was characterized by a wit and irony that often masked a deeper introspection. He once quipped, "I'd rather be a failure at something I love than a success at something I hate." This quote encapsulates his philosophical approach to life, which prioritized personal fulfillment over external validation.
Influence on Modern Society
Red Buttons' impact on popular culture extends beyond his own performances. His unique blend of humor and pathos has inspired generations of comedians and actors, including the likes of
Woody Allen and
Billy Crystal. His "Never Got a Dinner" monologues, in particular, have become a cultural touchstone, symbolizing the quintessential American everyman.
Awards and Honors
- Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for Sayonara (1957)
- Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Motion Picture for Sayonara (1957)
Personal Milestones and Key Life Events
- Born on February 5, 1919, in Manhattan, New York
- Passed away on July 13, 2006, at the age of 87
Legacy
Red Buttons' contributions to the world of entertainment have left an indelible mark on American culture. His unique brand of humor, his Oscar-winning performance, and his perseverance in the face of adversity have cemented his place as a true Hollywood legend. As a testament to his enduring legacy, Red Buttons remains an beloved figure, remembered and cherished by audiences around the world.
FAQ
What was Red Buttons most famous role?
Red Buttons was best known for his role as Private Johnson in the 1944 film The Longest Day, for which he won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.
What was Red Buttons experience during World War II?
Red Buttons served in the United States Army during World War II and was part of the variety showcast Battle Stations, entertaining troops in the South Pacific.
What was Red Buttons career like after World War II?
After World War II, Red Buttons went on to have a successful career in film and television, appearing in over 70 films and TV shows, including The Dean Martin Show and The Love Boat.
What awards did Red Buttons win during his career?
Red Buttons won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role in The Longest Day, as well as a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor.
What was Red Buttons impact on American comedy?
Red Buttons was a pioneering comedian and actor who made significant contributions to American comedy, paving the way for future generations of comedians and actors.
