A comedian and actor who brought humor to stage and screen, starring in TV shows like "Curb Your Enthusiasm" and films like "You Don't Mess with the Zohan".
Shelley Berman was an American comedian, actor, writer, teacher, and lecturer who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Known for his unique brand of humor and impressive improvisational skills, Berman was a pioneer in the world of comedy, earning him three gold records for his comedy albums and a Grammy Award for Best Spoken Comedy Recording in 1959.
Born on February 3, 1925, in Chicago, Illinois, Berman was the son of Irene (née Marks) and Nathan Berman. He grew up in a Jewish family with a younger brother, Ronald. After serving in the Navy during World War II, Berman enrolled in Chicago's Goodman School of Drama at the Art Institute of Chicago (now at DePaul University). It was during this time that he met his future wife, Sarah Herman, whom he married in 1947.
Berman's career in comedy began with an acting company in Woodstock, Illinois, before moving to New York City in 1949. He honed his acting skills at the HB Studio and worked various jobs to make ends meet, including as a social director, cab driver, speech teacher, assistant manager of a drug store, and dance instructor at Arthur Murray Dance Studios. His big break came when he became a sketch writer for The Steve Allen Plymouth Show.
Berman's comedic career spanned over six decades, during which he worked with some of the biggest names in the industry. In the mid-1950s, he became a member of Chicago's Compass Players, which later evolved into The Second City. It was during this time that he developed his solo pieces, often employing an imaginary telephone as a prop.
In 1957, Berman was hired as a comedian at Mister Kelly's in Chicago, leading to other nightclub bookings and a recording contract with Verve Records. His comedy albums earned him three gold records and his debut album, Inside Shelley Berman, won the first Grammy Award for Best Spoken Comedy Recording in 1959.
In the 2000s, Berman's career experienced a resurgence, thanks in part to his portrayal of Larry David's father on HBO's Curb Your Enthusiasm, earning him an Emmy Award nomination in 2008. He also taught humor writing at the University of Southern California for over 20 years, imparting his wisdom to a new generation of comedians.
Shelley Berman's impact on the world of comedy cannot be overstated. He was a true original, known for his innovative style and quick wit. Throughout his long and illustrious career, he paved the way for future generations of comedians, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and entertain audiences to this day.
Berman was married to Sarah Herman for over 70 years until his passing on September 1, 2017. He is survived by his wife and two children, Rachel and Joshua.
Born in 1923
Star of the classic TV sitcom "Get Smart," playing the bumbling secret agent Maxwell Smart, and directing numerous episodes of the show. He's iconic for his comedic timing and catchphrases like "Missed it by that much!"
Born in 1925
Star of classic TV sitcoms, particularly "The Dick Van Dyke Show," known for his charming wit, physical comedy, and iconic characters.
99 Years Old
A comedic genius behind iconic films like "The Producers" and "Blazing Saddles", known for his irreverent humor and parody style.
Born in 1922
A comedic genius behind iconic TV shows and films, creating laughter and entertainment for generations through his work in front of and behind the camera.
Born in 1922
A pioneer of live television comedy, creating hilarious characters and sketches that influenced generations of comedians and writers. Known for his impressive improvisational skills and energetic performances.
Born in 1908
A pioneering comedian and actress who excelled in improv, starring in the classic TV show "Your Show of Shows" and influencing generations of comedians.
96 Years Old
A comedian and actor famous for his deadpan delivery and iconic sitcoms, including "The Bob Newhart Show" and "Newhart".
Born in 1896
A legendary comedian and entertainer, known for his quick wit, charming stage presence, and iconic cigar, starring in films and TV shows that brought laughter to generations.
