Remembering Don Rickles: Comedy Legend
What makes a comedian truly legendary? Don Rickles, the undisputed king of insult comedy, proved it wasn't just about the jokes, but the enduring connection forged with an audience, a connection built on razor-sharp wit and a surprisingly warm heart. His passing on April 6, 2017, at the age of 90 marked the end of an era, leaving a void in the entertainment world that may never be filled.
Three weeks before his death, Rickles, ever the devoted husband, dedicated his final tweet to his beloved wife, Barbara. This simple act of love, amidst a career built on playful jabs and roasts, revealed the man behind the comedic mask. He wasn't just a "rabid funnyman," as he was often described, but a man deeply committed to his family. Though his close relationships with showbiz giants Frank Sinatra and Johnny Carson reportedly ended on a sour note, his love for Barbara remained a constant, a testament to the enduring power of family bonds.
| Full Name: | Donald Jay Rickles |
| Born: | May 8, 1926, Queens, New York |
| Died: | April 6, 2017, Los Angeles, California |
| Cause of Death: | Kidney Failure |
| Occupation: | Comedian, Actor |
| Known For: | Insult Comedy, Quick Wit, Roles in Casino, Toy Story |
| Spouse: | Barbara Sklar (m. 1965-2017) |
| Reference: | Biography.com |
Even at 90, the thought of retirement was alien to Rickles. He was a performer to his core, a man who thrived under the spotlight. Just two months before his passing from kidney failure at his Los Angeles home, he was still making plans, looking forward to celebrating his 52nd wedding anniversary with Barbara on March 14th. His reported last words, a poignant declaration of love for his wife "We are celebrating our 52nd wedding anniversary March 14th. Happy anniversary my dear wife, Barbara. You are my life." paint a picture of a man who, despite his comedic persona, cherished the simple joys of life and love.
Rickles career, spanning decades, was anything but conventional. He began performing shortly after World War II, but his brand of humor, considered too abrasive for the times, didn't gain traction until the late 1950s. It was Frank Sinatra, recognizing Rickles' unique talent, who championed the comedian, introducing him to wider audiences and paving the way for his eventual success. Sinatra, followed by Dean Martin, embraced Rickles' edgy style, ushering in a new era of insult comedy.
Rickles was a master of his craft. He could roast anyone, from Hollywood A-listers to everyday folks, with a precision and charisma that disarmed and delighted. He famously held court at a star-studded event, quipping, "I'm the biggest name here," a statement both audacious and undeniably hilarious. This ability to deliver cutting remarks with a twinkle in his eye earned him the affection of his targets, transforming insult comedy into an art form.
His final public appearances, promoting a retrospective DVD set and upcoming concerts, underscored his unwavering dedication to his craft. Scot Cru, the executive producer of Rickles' last project, "Dinner with Don," attested to the comedian's relentless work ethic. Even in his twilight years, Rickles remained committed to his audience, driven by a desire to connect with people through laughter.
While the exact nature of his final words remains a subject of debate, their essence, the enduring love for his wife, is undeniable. It is this human side of Rickles, glimpsed beneath the veneer of comedic bravado, that resonates most powerfully. His legacy extends beyond the jokes; it's a story of perseverance, creativity, and the remarkable ability to find humor even in the face of lifes final curtain.
Don Rickles embodied a specific type of American humor, one that thrived on playful insults and good-natured ribbing. He was the "insult comic everybody loves," a testament to his unique ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level. His passing, though mourned by many, also serves as a celebration of a life lived fully, a life dedicated to the pursuit of laughter, and a love story that endured until the very end.
He was more than just a comedian; he was a cultural icon, a man who transformed the landscape of humor and left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions. His legacy, like his laughter, will continue to resonate for generations to come.
