Joey Bishop

Date of Birth: February 3, 1918

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: October 17, 2007

Biography

Joey Bishop, born Joseph Abraham Gottlieb on February 3, 1918, in The Bronx, New York, was an American entertainer renowned for his work as a comedian, actor, and television host. He was a pivotal member of the Rat Pack, a group of entertainers that included Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr., and Peter Lawford. Bishop’s career began in the 1940s as part of a comedy duo with his brother, Maury. He later transitioned to solo performances, gaining prominence in the 1950s and 1960s with frequent appearances on television and in films. Bishop starred in his own TV sitcom, “The Joey Bishop Show,” which aired from 1961 to 1965. He was also a frequent guest host for Johnny Carson on “The Tonight Show,” showcasing his quick wit and comedic timing. His film career included notable roles in movies like “Ocean’s 11” and “Texas Across the River.” Despite his success, Bishop maintained a relatively low profile compared to his Rat Pack counterparts, often described as the “straight man” of the group. Bishop married Sylvia Ruzga in 1941, and they remained together until her death in 1999. They had one son, Larry Bishop, who followed in his father’s footsteps, becoming an actor and director. Joey Bishop passed away on October 17, 2007, in Newport Beach, California, at the age of 89.

5 Interesting Facts about Joey Bishop

1. Joey Bishop was the last surviving member of the original Rat Pack.

2. He was known for his deadpan delivery and often played the role of the “straight man” in comedy acts.

3. Bishop hosted a late-night talk show, “The Joey Bishop Show,” from 1967 to 1969, which featured Regis Philbin as his sidekick.

4. He served in the United States Army during World War II, where he entertained troops as part of a military revue.

5. Bishop made over 175 appearances on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson,” more than any other guest host.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Joey Bishop

1. “The only exercise I take is walking behind the coffins of friends who took exercise.”

2. “There are two kinds of people in this world: those who like Neil Diamond and those who don’t.”

3. “A comic’s job is to make people laugh. That’s it.”

4. “My career is not a career, it’s a never-ending pursuit of a means to survive.”

5. “I had a very simple way of keeping my life in order. I never got involved in anything that would take me away from my work.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Joey Bishop’s highest net worth achieved was estimated to be around $10 million.

Children

Joey Bishop had one son, Larry Bishop, who went on to become an actor, screenwriter, and director. Larry has appeared in films such as “Kill Bill: Vol. 2” and “Hell Ride.”