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Comedian and actor Don Rickles died Thursday at his home in Los Angeles, his publicist, Paul Shefrin, confirmed to the press. With a sharp wit, biting humor, and an unrivaled ability to make sarcasm an art, Rickles left an indelible mark on comedy and entertainment. Affectionately and ironically, he was called “Mr. Warmth,” in honor of his signature style of teasing with rapid-fire insults that earned him both admirers and friends.
Rickles had a career spanning decades and became a beloved figure in stand-up comedy, television, and film. His performances were a unique blend of humor and charm, earning him a reputation as one of the most fearless and entertaining comedians of his generation. Be it roasting celebrities, performing for presidents, or doing guest spots on talk shows, Rickles did his thing with everyone in stitches, with always that twinkle in his eye and a real warmth beneath the jokes.
Beyond his comedy, Rickles was an actor who has appeared in such films as Kelly’s Heroes and Casino, and did voice work as Mr. Potato Head in the Toy Story film franchise. Though a loud and bombastic figure onstage, friends said he was tight with his family and a humble man.
But for those who would wish to celebrate his life and dive deep into the astounding story of this comic genius, it’s time to revisit the story of Don Rickles. From groundbreaking comedy to the creation of his enduring legacy, Rickles will be remembered as one of the greatest, bringing so much joy and laughter to millions around the world.
Don Rickles Age and Early Life
Don Rickles was born Donald Jay Rickles on May 8, 1926, in New York City. He was the only child of Max, an insurance salesman and Etta.
He was raised in the Jackson Heights area of Queens, where he was involved in the local synagogue. After he graduated from Newton High School in 1944, Don spent two years in the U.S. Navy.
He also tried to follow in his father’s footsteps as an insurance salesman, before he enrolled at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, where his classmates included some of the greats, like Grace Kelly and Jason Robards.
Don Rickles’ Stand-Up
Rickles was known by many names, due to his ability to make fun of others without a moment’s notice. His nicknames included: “Mr. Warmth,” “The Merchant of Venom,” “The Insultan,” and “The Insult King from Queens.”
His career spanned over six decades, but he rose to fame in the ’60s, with appearances on The Tonight Show and The Dean Martin Show. Before Don Rickles’ brand of comedy took off, he found difficulty finding roles as a young actor and decided to take gigs in clubs by performing comedy routines.
Being new to the game, he often got heckled for his routine and inexperience but found endless laughs when he fired back at the audience. He later moved his act to Miami Beach (where he made an impression on Frank Sinatra) and later Los Angeles. Check out some of his early stuff below!
He was Mr. Potato Head!
Rickles starred in several films and made several appearances on TV, but his most famous role (that kids will know of) is when he played the voice of Mr. Potato Head in Disney’s famous Toy Story series. His character got a wife later on—Mrs. Potato Head, played by former Seinfeld actress, Estelle Harris.
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Don Rickles’ Wife and Kids
Don is survived by his wife of 52 years, Barbara, as well as their daughter Mindy Mann, her husband Ed, and their two children, Ethan and Harrison Mann. Don’s only son, Larry (who was born on May 12, 1970) died of respiratory failure, which stemmed from pneumonia.
He died at 41 years old in Los Angeles and was an Emmy award-winning producer, who was best-known for producing a documentary about his father titled, Mr.Warmth: The Don Rickles Project.
Don and his wife also used to go on vacations with comedian, Bob Newhart and his wife, Ginnie.
“He was called ‘The Merchant of Venom,’ but in truth, he was one of the kindest, caring, and most sensitive human beings we have ever known,” the Newharts said in a statement. “We are devastated, and our world will never be the same. We were unprepared for this.”
