Edd “Kookie” Byrnes
PMP Network Presents
Edd Byrnes, known for his role as Kookie, reflects on his unexpected rise to stardom from a humble background. He shares how he navigated the pressures of early success and the impact of his father's alcoholism on his life choices. Byrnes also talks about his career post-series, including his work in Europe and his personal spending habits.
Edd "Kookie" Byrnes
About Edd “Kookie” Byrnes
Edd Byrnes was an American actor and singer who rose to fame as Kookie, the hair-combing parking attendant turned detective on the television series 77 Sunset Strip from 1958 to 1964. His portrayal made him a teen idol, earning him a gold record with "Kookie, Kookie (Lend Me Your Comb)" alongside Connie Stevens and a ranking as TV Guide's fifth greatest teen idol. He later appeared in European films including spaghetti Westerns and played Vince Fontaine in the 1978 film Grease.
In this interview
- Recalls being overwhelmed by sudden Hollywood success coming from a poor New York background.
- Describes becoming head of household at twelve after his father's death from alcoholism.
- Talks about working in Europe for several years after leaving the series.
- Reflects on living beyond his means with luxury homes and cars to feel whole.
“I basically thought it would fix me, make me feel whole and complete.”— Edd “Kookie” Byrnes, in this interview
Since this interview
Byrnes died on January 8, 2020, at age 87 at his home in Santa Monica, California.
