Tony Randall
PMP Network Presents
Tony Randall shares his perspective on comedy, distinguishing between observational humor and reliance on 'blue material.' He reflects on the significant transformations within show business and Broadway throughout his extensive 60-year career.
Tony Randall
About Tony Randall
Tony Randall was an American actor and comedian best known for his Emmy Award-winning portrayal of Felix Unger in the television series The Odd Couple (1970-1975). He appeared in numerous films including Pillow Talk (1959) alongside Doris Day and Rock Hudson, earning a Golden Globe nomination. Over his six-decade career, he received six Golden Globe and six Primetime Emmy nominations. Randall also served as founding artistic director of the National Actors Theatre and co-authored the memoir Which Reminds Me (1989).
In this interview
- Criticized comedians who rely on profanity, calling it dropping your pants for a laugh.
- Praised Jerry Seinfeld as hilarious while resenting talented performers who use blue material.
- Reflected on sixty years in show business and Broadway's decline from two hundred shows annually.
- Noted vaudeville's death and sitcoms replacing the little comedy stable of Broadway seasons.
“That's too easy. That's dropping your pants for a laugh.”— Tony Randall, in this interview
Since this interview
Tony Randall passed away on May 17, 2004, at age 84 at NYU Medical Center in Manhattan.
