Merchant Of Venom!

Welcome to a SPECIAL EDITION of the Piece Of Advice Newsletter!

Good morning! Today is the birthday of the late and great comedian, Don Rickles! Today we will take a dive into his unique and amazing career! I even got to ask Mike Starr who wrote a wonderful book about Don called “Don Rickles: The Merchant Of Venom”, a few questions!

Few entertainers have left a mark as indelible, and as joyfully abrasive; as Don Rickles. Known as “Mr. Warmth,” a nickname steeped in irony, Rickles built a career on rapid-fire insults that somehow left audiences laughing instead of offended. Rising to fame in the 1950s and ‘60s, he carved out a unique niche in comedy, roasting celebrities and crowds alike with his signature style. But beneath the biting remarks was a warmth and quick wit that made him beloved by peers and fans across generations.

Rickles got his big break thanks to an unexpected fan: Frank Sinatra. After Rickles humorously roasted Sinatra at a nightclub, the singer became a lifelong supporter, helping propel Rickles into the spotlight. From there, his career soared. He became a staple on late-night television, a frequent guest on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson”, and a regular presence at Dean Martin’s legendary celebrity roasts. His ability to poke fun at Hollywood royalty, without ever losing their admiration; was a rare and special talent.

In addition to his stand-up, Rickles had a prolific acting career. He starred in films like “Kelly’s Heroes” and “Casino”, and lent his unmistakable voice to Mr. Potato Head in the “Toy Story” franchise, introducing his unique charm to a whole new generation. I was lucky enough to see him perform live in 2016, just a year before he passed away. Even at 90, his timing was razor-sharp, his energy magnetic, and the room was full of laughter. It was a night I’ll never forget; and a rare chance to see a true comedy legend doing what he did best.

Even after his passing in 2017, Don Rickles remains a towering figure in the world of comedy. His influence is clear in today’s comics who blend truth with humor and dare to challenge expectations. Rickles proved that even the sharpest jokes can be delivered with love; and that sometimes, the best way to bring people together is with a well-timed zinger and a wink.

Mike Starr:

Giancarlo: What is your favorite Sinatra story that you wrote in the book and why?

Mike Starr: My favorite Sinatra story, illustrated by one of the photos in the book, is the interplay between Don and Sinatra when they were guests on “The Tonight Show” -- and Don would riff on Sinatra's personal life with a barrage of jokes (and Sinatra would laugh --which was a rarity with him).

Giancarlo: Have you always been a fan of Don Rickles and how did you discover him?

Mike Starr: I discovered Don Rickles when watching him on “The Tonight Show” and all those Dean Martin Roasts on which he appeared in the 1970s, and I became an instant fan. He became appointment television for me whenever he was a late-night guest or appeared on someone else's show in prime time. (I can't say I was a fan of any of his sitcoms, though.) He was always hilarious.

Giancarlo: What is your favorite quote of his? Mine was at the end of “Hello Dummy!” Where he says; “When our time is up, we will all be on one team. So why do we need bigotry and nonsense? Let’s enjoy while Almighty God gives us time.”

Mike Starr: I don't really have a favorite quote from Don, but I think the quote you chose encapsulates his attitude forward his comedy; make fun of everyone but never take it seriously.

You can grab Mike’s book here!:

https://a.co/d/7fX2LiP

Thank you for reading! Have an amazing weekend and we will catch you again on Monday!

-Giancarlo