On this day in history, March 3, 1966, 'I Love Lucy' star, vaudeville performer William Frawley dies
03.03.2023 - 08:21
/ foxnews.com
William Frawley, the Iowa-born vaudevillian whose quick-witted comebacks and grumpy but lovable portrayal of Fred Mertz on the legendary sitcom "I Love Lucy" endeared him to millions of Americans, died on this day in history, March 3, 1966. He was 79.
Nicknamed "Bill," the actor was best known for his supporting role as Fred Mertz, the Ricardos' sarcastic landlord of 623 E. 68th Street in Manhattan. Throughout his career, Frawley was cast in over 100 films, including "Desire," "Miracle on 34th Street" and "Monsieur Verdoux" starring Charlie Chaplin. He often portrayed coaches or trainers — fitting, arguably, given his affinity for sports and his friendships with athletes.
After his success as Fred Mertz as he worked alongside Lucille Ball (Lucy Ricardo), Desi Arnaz (Ricky Ricardo) and Vivian Vance (Ethel Mertz) in "I Love Lucy," Frawley starred as Bub in the television comedy series, "My Three Sons." Frawley came from "vaudeville roots," as noted in the unauthorized biography of Vance and Frawley titled, "Meet the Mertzes," written by Rob Edelman and Audrey Kupferberg. He performed in vaudeville with his brother Paul Frawley before touring with others, including with his wife Edna Louise Broedt, a performer whom he divorced in 1927 after 13 years of marriage. He also had a solid run on Broadway amid many B-roles in films.
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