“Ooh! Ooh!” Step back in time to the 1960s with a beloved sitcom that continues to charm audiences through syndication: Car 54, Where Are You? This week’s sketch revisits this cult classic, a show centered around a car, though this time, the focus is pulled back from the vehicle itself to spotlight the comedic brilliance within. The series follows the humorous escapades of New York police officers Toody and Muldoon, brought to life by the iconic duo of Joe E. Ross and Fred Gwynne. Even decades later, “Car 54, Where Are You?” retains a dedicated fanbase, a testament to its enduring appeal.
Fred Gwynne and Joe E. Ross in Car 54 Where Are You tv series
A recent conversation with the insightful writer Mark Evanier – whose blog is a treasure trove for media aficionados – brought to light fascinating aspects of Fred Gwynne’s career. While many recognize Gwynne for his acting prowess, particularly in “Car 54, Where Are You?”, his artistic talents often remain in the shadows.
Gwynne was not merely an actor; he was a gifted artist, illustrator, and cartoonist. Even as acting became his primary profession, he authored and illustrated numerous children’s books, showcasing his diverse creative abilities. His artistic journey began at Harvard University, where he contributed cartoons to the Harvard Lampoon, eventually leading the prestigious publication as its president. Alongside his artistic pursuits, Gwynne was also actively involved in acting during his Harvard years, indicating a dual passion from early on.
Interestingly, Gwynne wrestled with choosing between a career as an actor and an illustrator. Upon moving to New York City, he initially pursued both paths. Despite securing roles, including a Broadway appearance and a minor part in the acclaimed film “On the Waterfront,” Gwynne grew disillusioned with acting and began to lean towards illustration as a more viable career. According to Evanier, Gwynne had nearly resigned himself to a future as an illustrator, ready to leave acting behind.
However, fate intervened when producers of “The Phil Silvers Show” contacted him for an audition. They needed an actor for an episode featuring a character with eating binges, exploited by Sgt. Bilko in an eating contest. The initial casting choice for the ‘big eater’ was a heavy-set actor, but Phil Silvers envisioned greater comedic potential in a tall, slender actor defying expectations. Silvers remembered the 6’5″ Gwynne from a Broadway comedy and invited him to audition. Gwynne landed the role, and his portrayal was so well-received that he returned for another episode. This marked a turning point, leading to further TV guest appearances and ultimately his casting in “Car 54, Where are You?”. Fred Gwynne’s career trajectory shifted back to acting, where he enjoyed a long and successful run, while his artistic endeavors took a secondary role.
This behind-the-scenes glimpse into Fred Gwynne’s journey adds another layer of appreciation for his performance in “Car 54, Where Are You?”. It highlights the rich tapestry of talent that contributed to making this sitcom a lasting piece of television history.
