Jack E. Leonard

Jack E. Leonard was an American comedian and actor who became a familiar presence on television variety and game shows. Born Leonard Lebitsky in Chicago, he began professionally as a dancer in Charleston contests, later joining a vaudeville troupe in the 1930s and touring with big bands in nightclubs around the country. During World War II he entertained troops with the United Service Organizations. His first national exposure came on The Tonight Show hosted by Jack Paar, after which he performed regularly in Las Vegas and appeared on hundreds of television programs. He also made occasional recordings and acted in films including Three Sailors and a Girl and The Disorderly Orderly (1964). Leonard's sarcastic, aggressive comedy helped pioneer insult humor and anticipated Don Rickles, and he emceed the Friars' Club roast of Rickles. He died in 1973.