Charlie Callas was an American comedian and actor known for his unique brand of slapstick humor, wild facial expressions, and distinctive, rubber-faced antics. Born Charles Callias on December 20, 1924, in Brooklyn, New York, he became famous for his stand-up comedy and frequent appearances on television throughout the 1960s, 70s, and 80s.
### **Key Highlights of Charlie Callas’s Career:**
– **Comedic Style:** Callas was renowned for his high-energy, physical comedy and his ability to produce bizarre sound effects with his voice, making his routines stand out.
– **TV and Film Appearances:** He was a frequent guest on popular shows like “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson,” “The Dean Martin Show,” and “The Ed Sullivan Show.” Callas also appeared in several films, including Mel Brooks’s “High Anxiety” and “Silent Movie.”
– **Iconic Roles:** He was well-known for his role as Malcolm Argos on the TV series “Switch” and his voice work as Elliott the dragon in Disney’s “Pete’s Dragon” (1977).
– **Friendship with Celebrities:** Callas was a close friend of Dean Martin and often performed in his roasts. His relationship with Johnny Carson, however, famously soured after Carson banned him from “The Tonight Show” for pushing him during a skit.
Callas’s unique comedic presence made him a memorable figure in American comedy until his death in 2011. His distinctive style continues to influence physical and improvisational comedians today.
