Donald Jay Rickles, a legendary figure in the entertainment industry, was born on May 8, 1926, in the vibrant city of New York. His remarkable journey in show business spanned an impressive six decades, with a career that flourished long after the Golden Era of Hollywood had come to a close.
Beginning in the 1940s, Rickles honed his craft in the world of nightclubs, dedicating over two decades of his life to perfecting his art. His perseverance eventually paid off when he made his film debut in the 1958 blockbuster Run Silent Run Deep. The movie's resounding success marked the beginning of a long and illustrious acting career, with Rickles going on to star in a wide range of films, including X: The Man with the X-Ray Eyes, Bikini Beach, Enter Laughing, and Kelly's Heroes.
In 1973, Rickles became a regular fixture on Dean Martin's popular Celebrity Roasts, appearing frequently on the show and paying tribute to some of his closest friends, including the likes of Bob Hope, Frank Sinatra, and Lucille Ball. He even had the honor of serving as the roast master for Dean Martin himself. This period, which spanned from 1973 to 1984, was marked by a string of memorable performances and appearances.
In 1976, Rickles landed his own television series, CPO Sharkey, which enjoyed a successful two-year run. After a brief hiatus, he made a triumphant return to the big screen in 1995, starring alongside Tom Hanks and Tim Allen in the beloved animated film Toy Story. He reprised his role as the cantankerous Mr. Potato Head in the 1999 sequel, Toy Story 2.
Throughout his remarkable career, Rickles was known for his quick wit, sharp tongue, and unparalleled ability to poke fun at himself and those around him. His passing on April 6, 2017, at the age of 90, was met with an outpouring of tributes and condolences from fans and fellow celebrities alike.
Rickles is laid to rest at Mount Sinai Memorial Park in Los Angeles, California, in the prestigious Courts of Tanach, a testament to his enduring legacy in the world of entertainment.
