Billy Crystal went from stand-up comedy to playing Jodie Dallas, American TV's first major gay character, on the sitcom Soap (1977-81). As a cast member on Saturday Night Live (1984-85), Crystal was known for the catch-phrases "you look mahvelous" and "I hate it when that happens." After he moved from the small screen to films, Crystal's endearing sensitivity and gentle wit brought him success in movies such as Throw Momma from the Train (1987), When Harry Met Sally (1989), and City Slickers (1991). He made his directorial debut with Mr. Saturday Night (1992), the life story of Buddy Young, Jr., a fictional Catskills comedian Crystal created on Saturday Night Live.

Further Reading:

Crystal, Billy, with Dick Schaap. Absolutely Mahvelous. New York, G. P. Putnam's Sons, 1986.