Shari Lewis was an American actress and writer who is best known for Lamb Chop’s Play-Along, The Charlie Horse Music Pizza, and Star Trek. Born Phyllis Naomi Hurwitz on January 17, 1934, in New York City, she became a beloved figure in children’s television before her passing on August 2, 1998, in Los Angeles, California.
Personal and Family Life
Shari Lewis was married twice; her first marriage was to Stanley Harry Lipschitz in 1953, which ended in divorce in 1957. She later married Jeremy Tarcher in 1958, and they remained together until her death. The couple had one child, Mallory Tarcher. Lewis had a passion for performance nurtured by her parents, early on engaging in various arts including ventriloquism, magic tricks, and music.
Career
Throughout her career, Lewis became known for her talents in puppetry, ventriloquism, and music. She co-wrote an episode of Star Trek, showcasing her versatility as a performer and writer. Moreover, her creativity led her to develop and host popular children’s shows that captivated audiences, especially with her iconic character Lamb Chop. Lewis’s impressive skills also included conducting symphonies, demonstrating her diverse talents.
Death and Legacy
Shari Lewis passed away on August 2, 1998, due to uterine cancer, leaving behind a rich legacy in children’s entertainment. Her beloved character, Lamb Chop, continues to be remembered fondly by those who grew up watching her shows. Lewis’s work has influenced generations, demonstrating the impact of engaging children’s programming.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Shari Show | 1975-01-01 | Herself |
| Lamb Chop in the Haunted Studio | 1994-10-21 | Shari |
| The Muppet Movie | 1979-06-22 | Additional Muppet Performer |
| Holiday Greetings from ‘The Ed Sullivan Show’ | 1992-12-25 | Archive footage |
| Lamb Chop’s Special Chanukah | 1995-12-17 | Shari |
| Shari’s Passover Surprise | 1996-04-14 | Shari |
| Lamb Chop in the Land of No Manners | 1989-08-20 | Self |
| A Wedding Knight | 1966-08-08 | Gwendolyn (voice) |
| The Nanny | 1993-11-03 | Shari Lewis |
| Lamb Chop’s Play-Along | 1991-09-15 | Herself (Host) / Lamb Chop (voice) / Hush Puppy (voice) / Charlie Horse (voice) |
| The Ed Sullivan Show | 1948-06-20 | Self – Ventriloquist |