Milton Berle, born Mendel Berlinger (Yiddish: מענדעל בערלינגער; July 12, 1908 – March 27, 2002), was an American actor and comedian whose career spanned eight decades. He began in silent films and on stage as a child actor, later succeeding in radio, movies, and television.
As host of NBC’s Texaco Star Theatre (1948–1953), he became the first major American television star, known as “Uncle Miltie” and “Mr. Television”. He earned two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his work in radio and TV.
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Milton Berle Net Worth
Milton Berle had a net worth of $2 million at the time of his death. In 1933, he was hired by producer Jack White to star in Poppin’ the Cork, a musical comedy about the repeal of Prohibition, released by Educational Pictures. Berle co-wrote the score.
In 1940, with Ben Oakland and Milton Drake, he co-wrote the title song for Li’l Abner, released by RKO Radio Pictures, based on Al Capp’s comic strip, starring Buster Keaton. Berle also co-wrote Spike Jones’s B-side, Leave the Dishes in the Sink, Maw.
Early life
Milton Berle was born Mendel Berlinger into a Jewish family in Harlem, Manhattan. At 16, he adopted the name Milton Berle professionally. His father, Moses Berlinger (1872–1938), of German-Jewish descent, was a paint and varnish salesman.
His mother, Sarah (Sadie) Glantz Berlinger (1877–1954), of Polish-Jewish ancestry, later changed her name to Sandra Berle. He had three older brothers: Phil, Frank, and Jack Berle. Frank and Jack worked on Milton’s TV production staff, while Phil was a programming executive at NBC.
Career
Milton Berle entered show business in 1913 at age five, winning a Charlie Chaplin contest. He worked as a child model and was the face of Buster Brown shoes. He acted in silent films, claiming his first role was in The Perils of Pauline, though unverified. He also appeared in Bunny’s Little Brother, Tess of the Storm Country, Birthright, Love’s Penalty, Divorce Coupons, and Ruth of the Range.
He claimed roles in Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm, The Mark of Zorro, and Tillie’s Punctured Romance, though the latter is disputed. In 1916, he entered the Professional Children’s School.
Personal life
Milton Berle married Joyce Mathews twice before marrying Ruth Cosgrove (née Rosenthal) in 1953; she died of cancer in 1989. Berle blamed his mother for ruining past relationships, saying she ended romances after three dates. In 1992, he married Lorna Adams, a fashion designer 30 years younger.
He had three children: Victoria (with Mathews), William (with Cosgrove), and Bob Williams (with Junior Standish, née Jean Dunne Arthur). He had stepdaughters Leslie and Susan Brown, and three grandchildren: James, Mathew, and Tyler Daniel Roe (died 2014).
When did The Milton Berle Show air?
The Milton Berle Show, also popularly known as Texaco Star Theatre, made its television debut on June 8, 1948. This marked the beginning of Berle’s era as television’s inaugural superstar.
Conclusion
Milton Berle’s storied career exemplifies the timeless impact of talent, perseverance, and innovation. As the first major star of television, he laid the groundwork for the contemporary entertainment industry, leaving a legacy that transcends his financial success. His impact is not merely measured in laughter and joy brought to millions but in the path he paved for future generations in entertainment.
FAQs about Milton Berle
- What was Milton Berle known for? Milton Berle was celebrated as “Mr. Television” and “Uncle Miltie,” thanks to his pioneering work on the Texaco Star Theatre, which established him as the first major television star.
- Did Milton Berle have any children? Yes, Milton Berle had a son, Bill Berle, who has often recounted tales of his father’s illustrious career in entertainment.
- Was Milton Berle in any films? Indeed, Berle appeared in numerous films across his career, transitioning from silent film child actor roles to various comedic and dramatic parts.
- What awards did Milton Berle win? Milton Berle received an Emmy Award for his contributions to the Texaco Star Theatre, among other honors throughout his career.
- Did Milton Berle write any books? Yes, Milton Berle authored several books, including his autobiography, offering personal insights into his life and illustrious show business career.
