Riding a wave of success that lasted more than sixty years, Don Rickles is best known as the “insult” comic who skewered presidents, royalty, celebrities, and friends and fans alike. But there was more to “Mr. Warmth” than a devilish ear-to-ear grin and lightning-fast put-downs. Rickles was a loving husband, an adoring father who suffered a devastating loss, and a loyal friend to the likes of Bob Newhart and Frank Sinatra. Don was also a young student at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts and intended to become a seriously committed actor. But it was in small nightclubs where Rickles found success, steamrolling hecklers, honing his acerbic put-downs, and teaching the world to love being insulted. Sex, race, religion, nationality, physical appearance, political leanings—nothing and no one was safe from the “Planned Parenthood Poster Boy,” as Johnny Carson referred to him.
The Merchant of Venom traces Don Rickles’ career from his rise in the 1950s to a late-in-life resurgence thanks to the Toy Story franchise, his role in Martin Scorsese’s Casino, and scores of TV appearances from Carson to Seth Meyers. In the intervening decades, Rickles conquered every medium he worked in, including film, television, and on stage, where the Vegas legend was still performing at the age of eighty-five. In his highly memorable career, he was idolized by a generation of younger comedians including Jerry Seinfeld, Chris Rock, and Jay Leno, and performed in the shadow of a shocking open secret: he was the nicest man in town.
Don Rickles: The Merchant of Venom comes out on October 25, 2022. Kensignton Books provided an early galley for review.
As I was growing up in the 70's, Rickles was an ever-present staple on talk shows and variety shows that I watched. He could also be seen as a guest star on countless sitcoms from the 60's that were being shown in the ever-growing market of syndication. As such, I always knew who he was - a short, balding, loudmouth character. What I enjoyed about this biography from Michael Seth Starr is that I got to know a lot more about the man behind the mouth.
From his humble beginnings through his slow rise to fame in the stand-up clubs of the 50's and 60's, this one reads like a veritable who's who of old Hollywood. So many names brought back fond memories. I was surprised to see who among the famous counted themselves as his friends and who also were not fans of his approach to being the harsh mirror to humanity.
His act clearly was not for everyone. His tongue was sharp, his barbs were cutting and, in many cases, very derogatory to women and minorities. His act never could survive in modern times. However, he was an equal opportunity offender. Celebrity or regular person - it did not matter. Go to a Rickles show and be prepared to be a possible target. What I appreciate is that his act was not scripted; it was pure improv. Sure, he had some go to insults he'd use again and again - if they got laughs. It just goes to show how smart and able he was as a comedian.
The book does go into incredible detail about his career. Each year is mapped out with appearances, show runs and more. At times, it almost seems too detailed. The author also tends to repeat some facts and Rickle's put-downs. Then again, if Don could reuse, why not his most recent biographer? Still, for fans every detail is critical.
Overall, this will be an interesting read for folks who are into the history of entertainment of the 20th century.
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