Shelley Berman
Shelley Berman
The King of Satire
Full Name and Common Aliases
Shelley Berman's full name was Sheldon Leonard Berman. He is often referred to as the "King of Satire" due to his biting wit and incisive commentary on the human condition.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on May 3, 1925, in Chicago, Illinois, Shelley Berman passed away on May 5, 2017, at the age of 92.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Berman was an American comedian, actor, writer, and director. He is best known for his sharp wit and satire, which earned him a significant following in both television and theater.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in a Jewish family on Chicago's South Side, Berman was exposed to the city's vibrant comedy scene from an early age. His father, a tailor, encouraged his son's interest in show business, and Shelley began performing stand-up at local clubs as a teenager. After serving in the U.S. Army during World War II, he moved to New York City to pursue a career in comedy.
Major Accomplishments
Berman's breakthrough came in 1958 when he became the first comedian to perform at the legendary Carnegie Hall. His success led to appearances on numerous television shows, including _The Ed Sullivan Show_, _What's My Line?_, and _The Tonight Show_. He also wrote for several TV programs, including _Alfred Hitchcock Presents_.
Notable Works or Actions
Berman's most notable work was his 1961 comedy album _Inside Shelley Berman_, which won two Grammy Awards. This album showcased his unique style of social commentary through humor and satire. He continued to release successful albums throughout the 1960s, cementing his reputation as a master of comedic storytelling.
Impact and Legacy
Shelley Berman's impact on comedy is still felt today. His influence can be seen in comedians such as Bob Newhart and Mort Sahl, who credit him with helping to establish satire as a major force in American comedy. Berman also paved the way for future generations of comedians, including Woody Allen and Richard Pryor.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Berman's incisive wit and biting satire continue to be celebrated by audiences around the world. His ability to tackle complex social issues with humor and intelligence has made him a beloved figure in comedy history. His legacy as the "King of Satire" is a testament to his enduring impact on the world of entertainment.
In conclusion, Shelley Berman was a true original – a master comedian, actor, writer, and director who left an indelible mark on American culture. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of comedians and entertainers, ensuring that his biting wit and incisive satire will remain relevant for years to come.
Quotes by Shelley Berman
Have a great, great marriage. Have a great time together. You know something? You'll disagree sometimes, and you'll find out how stupid it is, and then you'll be OK. You will.
I've got these two wonderful people who run my web site and put me on Facebook. They didn't even ask me. I'm very appreciative of it.
I just sit down and write. I never know when. The most recent one is 'Sarah Still,' which is about our life, Sarah and me. It's my favorite of all my poems.
I don't know the accident of still being married. I was the worst human being. But we were, I guess, in love. So much has happened to us to bring us together and keep us together.
'Outside' came in '60. 'The Edge' in '61. All three made Gold, but the biggest seller was 'Inside.'
I heard the other day of a man who paid a psychologist $50 to cure him of an inferiority complex – and later was fined $25 and costs for talking back to a traffic cop.
While you’re improvising, you may come up with something which will break him up. As soon as that smile comes out, you know that, hey, we’re having fun.