Jack Paar
Jack Paar
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Full Name and Common Aliases
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Full name: John Frederick Charles "Jack" Paar
Common aliases: None notable
Birth and Death Dates
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Born on May 1, 1918, in Canton, Ohio, USA
Died on January 26, 2004, in Greenwich, Connecticut, USA
Nationality and Profession(s)
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Nationality: American
Profession: Comedian, actor, game show host, and television personality
Early Life and Background
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Jack Paar was born to a family of modest means. His father, Frederick "Fred" Paar, was an immigrant from Germany who worked as a florist. Jack's mother, Rose (née Miller), came from a local farming family. Growing up in Canton, Ohio, Paar developed a strong interest in comedy and performing at an early age.
Paar attended the University of Dayton but dropped out to pursue a career in entertainment. He began working as a stand-up comedian in nightclubs and on radio stations. During World War II, Paar served in the United States Army Air Forces, entertaining troops with his comedic routines.
Major Accomplishments
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Paar's breakthrough came when he was hired by NBC to host the popular game show "Twenty Questions" (1949-1952). He later became a regular panelist on the quiz program "What's My Line?" (1950-1974).
However, Paar is perhaps best known for his tenure as the host of "The Tonight Show" from 1957 to 1962. During this period, he revolutionized late-night television with his irreverent and humorous style.
Notable Works or Actions
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Some notable episodes during Paar's time on "The Tonight Show" include:
Edie Adams' wedding: Paar famously walked off the show after a controversy surrounding Edie Adams' marriage to Ernie Kovacs.
Johnny Carson's debut: Paar made way for Johnny Carson, who would go on to host "The Tonight Show" from 1962 to 1992.
Impact and Legacy
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Paar's influence on late-night television cannot be overstated. He paved the way for future hosts like Johnny Carson, David Letterman, and Conan O'Brien. His irreverent style and willingness to tackle sensitive topics helped shape the tone of modern comedy.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Paar's wit and humor continue to inspire comedians and writers today. He is widely quoted for his humorous observations on life, politics, and show business. His legacy extends beyond "The Tonight Show," as he remains a beloved figure in American entertainment.
In conclusion, Jack Paar was a trailblazing comedian and television personality who left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. His contributions to late-night television continue to be celebrated by audiences and comedians alike.
Quotes by Jack Paar
Jack Paar's insights on:
Personally, I like those mystery shows. Ever since I was a kid I’ve been crazy about blood and detectives and murder. Maybe I was born with a silver knife in my back.
It was plain to see the Hollywood undertakers take care of everything. If you die you don’t have to lift a finger.
I’m not saying these flying discs don’t really exist, but nobody living in Kansas City has seen them and that’s a dry state.
The California cemeteries make dying sound so attractive it’s a real effort to keep breathing.
The only non-believer I encountered was Oscar Levant who wouldn’t visit Disneyland because he said he had his own hallucinations.
Poor people have more fun than rich people, they say; and I notice it’s the rich people who keep saying it.
We were ensconced as guests of the exclusive Beverly Hilton Hotel, an edifice so swank that the fire ax in the hall outside our suite said: “In case of fire-break crystal.”
In an interview Errol Flynn said that his hobby was acting but he doesn’t have time for it.