Coleman Jacoby (1916-2010)

Scriptwriter Coleman Jacoby, who together with partner Arnie Rosen helped create some of Jackie Gleason’s most celebrated characters, passed away last month (October 20th) at the age of 95. In 1950, Jacoby and Rosen began writing for DuMont’s variety series Cavalcade of Stars, hosted by Gleason. The pair developed characters like Reginald Van Gleason III, Rudy the Repairman and Joe the Bartender. They also suggested Art Carney for a role in the first Reginald Van Gleason sketch, setting the stage for one of television’s most memorable comedy duos.

In 1956, the two began writing for You’ ll Never Get Rich (which was soon retitled The Phil Silvers Show). According to the Internet Movie Database, Jacoby wrote at least 14 episodes between 1956 and 1959. They then spent five years writing for The Garry Moore Show before splitting up in 1967. Jacoby then formed his own production company and worked on television specials. An obituary can be found at The New York Times.


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