Art Carney: A Biography

About this book

(Applause Books). "A clear and well-written portrait of a superb performer and a wonderful human being with emphasis on the word human." - The New York Times Book Review He was one of the most beloved stars of televisions golden age. Together with his legendary partner Jackie Gleason Art Carney helped create some of the most dazzling and unforgettable comedy ever presented on the small screen. Carney was an agile rubber-limbed dancer and comedian whose sweetness and unassuming nature concealed the passion and power of a brilliant often underappreciated actor. The partnership formed by Carney and Gleason as Brooklyn bus driver Ralph Kramden and his dim-witted pal sewer worker Norton remains to this day the most powerful and memoriable comedic union ever conceived for television. How this song-and-dance man and show business recluse began his career as well as the detours lucky breaks triumphs and heartbreaks Carney encountered along the way is the subject of this fascinating in-depth biography by author and New York Post editor Michael Seth Starr. ART CARNEY tells the story of a complex man and an enduring television legend who gave the world the most extraordinary gift of all: the gift of laughter.