Biography of Benny Rubin, talented character actor remembered for his work on I Love Lucy, The Three Stooges, The Red Skelton Show, and a great many others.
Benny Rubin (February 2, 1899 – July 15, 1986)
Benny Rubin was an American comedian and character actor. He was born on February 2, 1899, in Boston, Massachusetts. He was a versatile actor, known for comedy, acting, and voice work. Rubin’s career spanned nearly seventy years.
Early Life
Benny Rubin, born Benjamin Rubin, grew up in a Jewish family in Boston. Little is known about his early life, but he developed a passion for performing at a young age. He began his career in vaudeville. Benny quickly gained recognition for his comedy, and his performances in vaudeville circuits helped establish his reputation. He was able to assume virtually any dialect. He married his first wife, actress Mary O’Brien, on March 26, 1927 . They had a daughter together, but divorced in 1934.
Film and Radio Career
Benny Rubin made his mark in the film industry during the golden age of Hollywood. He appeared in numerous films, often playing comedic roles or providing his distinctive voice for animated characters. Some of his notable film credits include “Bullets or Ballots” (1936), “Charlie Chan at the Opera” (1936), and “Dimples” (1936). He appeared with a great many stars of the era, including Jerry Lewis, The Three Stooges, Abbott and Costello, Don Knotts, Frank Sinatra, among many others.
In addition to his success in films, Rubin ventured into radio, a popular medium for entertainment in the early to mid-20th century. He showcased his comedic talents on various radio programs. In 1940, he married Beatrice Dallinger, as well.
Television Career
When television became the dominant form of entertainment, Benny Rubin adapted to the new medium. His television credits include guest roles on dozens of popular series like “Petticoat Junction,” “The Munsters,” “The Jack Benny Program” and “The Red Skelton Show” among many others.
Later Years and Legacy
Benny Rubin continued to work in the entertainment industry well into his later years. His contributions to comedy and entertainment were recognized, and he left a lasting legacy. Rubin’s career spanned the transition from vaudeville to radio, film, and television, showcasing his adaptability and enduring talent.
Benny Rubin passed away on July 15, 1986 in Los Angeles, California from a heart attack.
Appearances with the Three Stooges
- Pardon My Backfire (1953)
- Tricky Dicks (1953)
- Income Tax Sappy (1954)
- Blunder Boys (1955)
- Hoofs and Goofs (1957)
- Space Ship Sappy (1957)
Appearances on The Red Skelton Show
- S1.E28 – The Travel Club
- S1.E32 – Live in San Francisco
- S1.E33 – Let’s Talk About Mother
- S1.E35 – The Railroad Station
- S1.E36 – Tornado Deadeye
- S1.E37 – Folding Boy
- S2.E1 – Willie Comes Home
- S2.E3 – The Stage Coach Robbery
- S2.E6 – Whistle Stop
- S2.E7 – Clem Kaddidhopper’s Graduation
- S3.E17 – A Voyage to Paris
- S3.E28 – King Putt
- S9.E25 – Freddie’s Millions
- S10.E17 – Freddie and the Baby
- S12.E5 – One Good Intern Deserves Another
- S12.E14 – Of Mouth and Men
Bibliography
- “Come Backstage with Me” – by Benny Rubin
- Internet Movie Database
- Wikipedia