Red Buttons

Biography

Red Buttons (February 5, 1919 – July 13, 2006) was an American actor, comedian, and singer known for his distinctive humor, emotional performances, and long career in film, television, and theatre. He became especially famous for his Academy Award-winning role in Sayonara (1957).

Early Life

Red Buttons was born Aaron Chwatt on February 5, 1919, in New York City. He grew up in a working-class family and began performing at a young age.

His nickname "Red Buttons" came from his early job as a bellhop, where he wore a red uniform with bright buttons. He later adopted the name as his professional identity.

Early Career

Buttons began his entertainment career as a comedian in nightclubs and became a popular performer during the 1930s and 1940s. He also appeared in Broadway productions and gained national attention through his comedy performances.

During World War II, he served in the U.S. Army, entertaining troops as part of military shows.

Film Career

Buttons made his film debut in The Admiral Was a Lady (1950) and went on to appear in numerous films. His notable movies include:

• They Shoot Horses, Don't They? (1969)
• The Poseidon Adventure (1972)
• Hatari! (1962)
• The Longest Day (1962)
• Pete's Dragon (1977)
• The Story of Us (1999)
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Sayonara

Buttons' most celebrated performance came in Sayonara (1957), directed by Joshua Logan and starring Marlon Brando.

He played Airman Joe Kelly, an American serviceman who falls in love with a Japanese performer. His emotional performance earned him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

He also received a Golden Globe Award for the role, making him one of the most recognized performers of the year.

Television Career

Red Buttons became a familiar face on television through his long-running series The Red Buttons Show (1952–1955), which featured his comedy sketches and catchphrases.

He later appeared in many television shows, including:

• ER
• The Love Boat
• Murder, She Wrote
• Knots Landing
• Roseanne
• NYPD Blue

Comedy Style and Legacy

Buttons was known for his quick wit, expressive personality, and famous phrase "I never got a dinner!" from his comedy routines.

Beyond comedy, he proved himself as a dramatic actor, earning respect for his emotional performances in films such as Sayonara and They Shoot Horses, Don't They?

Personal Life

Red Buttons was married three times. His third marriage was to actress Alicia Prats, with whom he remained until his death. He had two children.

Death

Red Buttons died on July 13, 2006, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 87, due to complications from vascular disease.