American comedy writer, head writer for the Oscars
Attended Ohio State University in the 1960s as a theater and journalism student.
Had a musical comedy background, claiming to have done every Stubby Kaye role there was.
Hefty, quipping, American gag writer who turned celebrity after becoming a wisecracking regular on the revamped "Hollywood Squares" game show (located next to Whoopi Goldberg in the left-center square).
Known to be an able provider of topical joke material for Academy Award hosts (notably Billy Crystal ). Also for comedy personalities on the road such as Bette Midler.
(October 2004) Playing Edna Turnblad in the Broadway production of Hairspray, recently played by Michael McKean and originated by Harvey Fierstein.
(September 2003) Starring as Edna Turnblad in the national tour of the Broadway smash hit, Hairspray.
