Paul Lynde, American actor and comedian (b. 1926)
Paul Edward Lynde, born on June 13, 1926, and who passed away on January 10, 1982, was an exceptionally gifted American comedian, actor, and game show panelist whose unique comedic style left an indelible mark on television and film during his lifetime. He became a beloved and recognizable figure in American entertainment due to his distinctively witty and often sardonic delivery.
The Distinctive Persona of Paul Lynde
Lynde was renowned as a character actor who cultivated a truly unique and memorable persona. His on-screen presence was characterized by a distinctively campy, snarky, and flamboyant style, which often allowed him to subtly, yet comically, poke fun at his own barely closeted homosexuality. In an era when open discussion of LGBTQ+ identity in mainstream media was virtually non-existent, Lynde masterfully employed coded humor and exaggerated mannerisms, creating a relatable and widely appreciated comedic archetype for audiences both straight and gay. This groundbreaking approach to his public image resonated deeply, making him a pioneering figure in subtle queer representation within entertainment.
Iconic Roles in Television and Film
- Uncle Arthur on Bewitched: Lynde achieved widespread fame and adoration for his recurring role as Uncle Arthur on the beloved fantasy sitcom Bewitched. As Samantha Stephens' eccentric and often mischievous warlock uncle, Lynde's impeccable comedic timing, signature exasperated expressions, and droll one-liners made him an instant fan favorite. His scenes often stole the show, showcasing his ability to blend outlandish magic with grounded, relatable humor.
- Harry MacAfee in Bye Bye Birdie: Prior to his television stardom, Lynde first gained significant recognition for his portrayal of the befuddled and perpetually flustered father, Harry MacAfee, in the musical Bye Bye Birdie. He originated the role on Broadway in 1960, delivering a memorable performance that he then reprised in the highly successful 1963 film adaptation. His performance in the "Kids" song sequence is particularly iconic, capturing the frustration of a father dealing with teenage fads.
The "Center Square" Legend on The Hollywood Squares
Perhaps Lynde's most enduring legacy stems from his role as a regular "center square" panelist on the popular game show The Hollywood Squares. From 1968 to 1981, Lynde occupied the crucial middle position on the tic-tac-toe board, where contestants sought to agree or disagree with his often hilariously incorrect or double entendre-laden answers. His quick wit, sarcastic remarks, and mischievous ad-libs made him the undisputed comedic highlight of the show, transforming a simple game show into a must-watch vehicle for his particular brand of humor. His ability to deliver a punchline with just the right facial expression or vocal inflection made him a master of the comedic pause and reveal.
Voice Acting Contributions
Beyond his on-screen live-action performances, Paul Lynde also lent his distinctive voice to a variety of animated characters. He was a prolific voice actor for several Hanna-Barbera productions, adding a unique vocal flair to beloved cartoons. Notable roles include the conniving Mildew Wolf in It's the Wolf! (a segment of Cattanooga Cats), the sinister Claude in The Perils of Penelope Pitstop, and various guest appearances on classic shows like Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!, further cementing his versatility in the entertainment industry.
Acclaim and Personal Philosophy
Paul Lynde's immense popularity was undeniable during his career. He consistently topped audience polls as one of the most-liked TV stars, a testament to his widespread appeal. Peers and critics alike admired his comedic genius. The legendary comedian and filmmaker Mel Brooks, for instance, famously encapsulated Lynde's talent by describing him as being capable of getting laughs by simply reading "a phone book, tornado alert, or seed catalogue." This highlights Lynde's unparalleled ability to infuse humor into the most mundane text through his unique delivery and timing.
Despite his widespread success in comedy, Lynde often expressed a desire to be recognized for his dramatic acting capabilities. However, he ultimately embraced his comedic calling with a profound perspective, once stating, "we live in a world that needs laughter and I've decided if I can make people laugh, I'm making an important contribution." This quote reveals his understanding of the powerful impact of humor and his dedication to bringing joy to audiences, solidifying his status as a beloved comedy legend.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paul Lynde
- What made Paul Lynde unique as a comedian?
- Paul Lynde's uniqueness stemmed from his distinctively campy and snarky persona, his masterful use of comedic timing, and his ability to deliver witty, often double entendre-laden lines. He also subtly integrated aspects of his "barely closeted" homosexuality into his comedic character, which was groundbreaking for his era.
- Which were Paul Lynde's most famous roles?
- His most famous roles include Uncle Arthur on the sitcom Bewitched, Harry MacAfee in the Broadway and film versions of Bye Bye Birdie, and as the iconic "center square" panelist on the game show The Hollywood Squares.
- Did Paul Lynde do voice acting?
- Yes, Paul Lynde was an active voice actor, particularly for Hanna-Barbera productions. He voiced characters such as Mildew Wolf in It's the Wolf! and Claude in The Perils of Penelope Pitstop, among others.
- How long was Paul Lynde on The Hollywood Squares?
- Paul Lynde was a regular "center square" panelist on The Hollywood Squares from 1968 until 1981, making him a staple of the show for over a decade.
- What was Paul Lynde's personal philosophy about his career?
- Though he sometimes wished for recognition as a serious actor, Lynde ultimately viewed his comedic work as an important contribution, famously stating, "we live in a world that needs laughter and I've decided if I can make people laugh, I'm making an important contribution."