Television, film, stage actor
Attended Columbia University in New York.
Made an honorary Mayor and honorary Sheriff of Chatsworth, California.
Later tried to fight his comedy stereotype with more ruthless character 70s and 80s roles. One of his favorite parts was as J. Pierpont Finch in the London musical production of "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying" in 1963.
Often playing much younger than he was, he won a Theatre World Award for his performance in "Blue Denim" and went on to play his role in the film version of Blue Denim . He was quite touching and sincere in the role of young Ernie, the best friend of Brandon De Wilde , who impregnates Carol Lynley.
Guest-starred on the original Howdy Doody childrens TV show, with roles following on Kraft Television Theatre and other programs.
Nephew of comic icon Milton Berle , whose real last name was Berlinger.
Has four children from his marriage (since 1960) to actress Betty Lou Keim. The couple appeared together on Broadway in "A Roomful of Roses" in 1955 and in his debut film Teenage Rebel .
Father Elias Berlinger was a Jewish building contractor and glass store owner in Brooklyn; mothers name: Frieda (Shapkin) Berlinger.
Deft, dark-haired, chubby-prone support and character actor who served up a number of comedic characters. Playing nearly 300 live TV roles in the 1950s alone, he went on to cheer up a number of lightweight film and TV comedies in the 60s and 70s.
Trained at New Yorks Professional Childrens School, he made his stage debut on Broadway in Ethel Merman s "Annie Get Your Gun" at age 9.
