Morey Amsterdam was an American actor who is best known for his roles in The Dick Van Dyke Show, The Morey Amsterdam Show, and Broadway Open House. Renowned for his comedic talent, he earned the nickname “The Human Joke Machine” for his ability to deliver jokes on any topic.
Personal and Family Life
Morey Amsterdam was born Moritz Amsterdam on December 14, 1908, in Chicago, Illinois. He married twice, first to Mabel Todd from 1934 to 1945, and later to Kay Amsterdam from 1945 until his death in 1996. Together with Kay, he had two children, Gregory and Cathy. Morey was known for his deep understanding of the Bible and was also an accomplished cellist, incorporating his musical skills into his comedy acts.
Career Highlights
He began his career in vaudeville at the young age of 14, performing as a straight man for his brother. During the 1930s and 40s, he worked as a gag writer and comedian for notable stars, gradually rising to fame on radio and television. His most significant role was as Buddy Sorrell on The Dick Van Dyke Show, where his quick wit and humor captivated audiences. He remained active in the entertainment industry, appearing in various television shows and films right up until the 1990s.
Death and Legacy
Morey Amsterdam passed away on October 27, 1996, in Los Angeles, California, after suffering a heart attack. He left behind a rich legacy in comedy and television, remembered fondly for his humor and contributions to the entertainment world. His work earned him a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, cementing his status as a beloved figure in American comedy.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Rudolph’s Shiny New Year | 1976-12-10 | One Million (voice) |
| The Horse in the Gray Flannel Suit | 1968-12-16 | Charlie Blake |
| Machine-Gun Kelly | 1958-05-01 | Michael Fandango |
| Murder, Inc. | 1960-06-28 | Walter Sage |
| Mister Magoo’s Christmas Carol | 1962-12-18 | Brady / James (voice) |
| Don’t Worry, We’ll Think of a Title | 1966-05-01 | Charlie Yuckapuck |
| The Dick Van Dyke Show | 1961-10-03 | Buddy Sorrell |
| The Morey Amsterdam Show | 1948-12-17 | Self – Host |
| Hollywood Squares | 1966-10-17 | Self |
| When Nature Calls | 1985-09-13 | Self |