Rodney Dangerfield was an American actor and comedian known for his roles in Caddyshack, Back to School, and Natural Born Killers. He was celebrated for his distinctive style, delivering famous one-liners and self-deprecating humor.
Personal and Family Life
Born Jacob Cohen on November 22, 1921, in Deer Park, New York, Rodney was the son of Phillip and Dorothy Cohen. He began crafting jokes at a young age and performed before he turned 20. He married Joyce Indig in 1949 and they had two children, Brian and Melanie. After struggling in comedy for years, he eventually divorced Joyce in 1961.
Career Highlights
Rodney found success after his appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show, leading to fame in nightclubs during the 1960s. He became a familiar face on TV, starring in numerous comedy specials and films, most notably in Caddyshack (1980), where he played Al Czervik. His comedic persona, often marked by his catchphrase “I don’t get no respect!”, resonated with audiences, making him a beloved figure in comedy.
Death and Legacy
Rodney Dangerfield passed away on October 5, 2004, due to complications from heart surgery. His impact on American comedy remains significant, with many comedians citing him as an influence. He left behind a legacy of laughter and a famous nightclub in Manhattan, “Dangerfield’s”.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Born Killers | 1994-08-26 | Mallory’s Dad |
| Rover Dangerfield | 1991-07-01 | Rover (voice) |
| Caddyshack | 1980-07-25 | Al Czervik |
| Little Nicky | 2000-11-10 | Lucifer |
| Back to School | 1986-06-13 | Thornton Melon |
| Easy Money | 1983-08-19 | Monty Capuletti |
| Meet Wally Sparks | 1997-01-31 | Wally Sparks |
| The Projectionist | 1975-06-05 | Renaldi / The Bat |
| Back By Midnight | 2005-01-25 | Jake Puloski |
| The Godson | 1998-10-06 | The Rodfather |