1916-1987
Comedian and Actor

Meteoric Rise.

Jackie Gleason enjoyed a meteoric rise in television during the early 1950s. From humble beginnings in Brooklyn, New York, Gleason worked his way to success through all kinds of show business jobs — at different times Gleason was a bouncer, carnival barker, radio disc jockey, and cabaret performer — before signing a one-year contract with Warner Bros. Pictures in 1941. After appearing in three movies for Warner Bros. and one for 20th Century—Fox in 1941 and 1942, Gleason returned to New York to work on Broadway and in comedy clubs. He continued to work in clubs and at resorts for seven years, until he was signed in 1949 by the Du Mont television network to star in the adaption to television of the "Life of Riley" radio series.

"Cavalcade of Stars."

After twenty-six weeks as Chester A. Riley, Gleason was named host...