Milton Berle - Uncle Miltie

Milton Berle (Deceased) was an American comedian, actor, and television personality who became one of the first major stars of American television. Born Mendel Berlinger on July 12, 1908, in New York City, he began performing as a child actor and later worked in vaudeville, radio, nightclubs, movies, and Broadway. Berle achieved enormous national fame as the host of "Texaco Star Theater," which became a television sensation beginning in 1948. His popularity was so great that he became known as "Mr. Television" and "Uncle Miltie." At a time when television ownership was rapidly expanding, Berle helped make the new medium a central part of American entertainment. His comedy style included rapid-fire jokes, slapstick, outrageous costumes, musical numbers, and frequent interaction with celebrity guests. He was especially famous for appearing in comic disguises and occasionally dressing in women's clothing for laughs. In addition to television, Berle appeared in numerous films, including "It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World," "Always Leave Them Laughing," and "Sun Valley Serenade." He also made many guest appearances on television programs throughout his long career. Milton Berle died on March 27, 2002, at age 93. His pioneering work during television's earliest years helped establish the variety-show format and made him one of the most important figures in broadcasting history. His autographs, photographs, and television memorabilia remain popular with collectors of classic comedy and early television.