Retro Blast: Inside Jackie Gleason's Cause Of Death

Born on February 26, 1916, in Brooklyn, New York, John Herbert Gleason grew up in a working-class family. His father, a chauffeur, abandoned the family when Gleason was young, and his mother, a homemaker, raised him in difficult circumstances. Gleason was an unruly child, but his love for performing emerged early, and he became known for his humorous antics and larger-than-life character. His early exposure to the world of show business came when he worked as a nightclub entertainer in the 1930s, eventually gaining recognition for his work in Broadway shows and comedy performances.

Gleason's big break came in the 1940s when he appeared in the Broadway production of 'Smiles' and later transitioned into radio, where his booming voice and comedic timing earned him a devoted following. However, it was television that would make him a superstar, and by the late 1950s, he was already a household name thanks to his starring role in the hit variety show 'The Jackie Gleason Show.'

Gleason’s transition to television was seamless. 'The Jackie Gleason Show,' which began in 1952, solidified him as one of the leading entertainers of his time. His vibrant personality, quick wit, and undeniable charm captured the hearts of millions. The show, which ran for over a decade, was a blend of sketch comedy, musical numbers, and guest performances, and it became one of the most successful variety shows in television history.

Gleason’s on-screen persona became synonymous with grandiosity. He often portrayed fictional characters like the beloved "Ralph Kramden," a gruff but lovable bus driver on the iconic sitcom 'The Honeymooners.' The character of "Ralph," often engaged in comedic escapades with his wife "Alice" (played by Audrey Meadows), would become one of television's most enduring figures. "Ralph Kramden" was known for his catchphrase, "To the moon, Alice!" which became instantly recognizable to generations of fans.

But Gleason’s talents were not confined to one character. His ability to play both comedic and serious roles showcased his versatility. He also starred in popular variety sketches, where his large physical presence and booming voice brought unforgettable performances to life. At his peak, Gleason was an inescapable force on television and was adored by audiences for his humor and charisma.

In addition to his television work, Gleason enjoyed a successful career in film. Though he was best known for his comedic work, he displayed a remarkable ability to take on a variety of roles across different genres. Some of his most famous film appearances included starring roles in movies like 'The Hustler' (1961), in which he played "Minnesota Fats," a character that was vastly different from his typical comedic persona. The film, which starred Paul Newman as "Fast Eddie Felson," showcased Gleason’s ability to hold his own in a serious dramatic role, and his portrayal of "Minnesota Fats" earned him critical acclaim.

Another standout performance was in 'Requiem for a Heavyweight' (1962), in which Gleason starred alongside Anthony Quinn. This dramatic teleplay marked one of the high points of his acting career, proving that he could tackle serious, emotionally charged roles with the same dedication he had brought to his comedy. Despite his versatility, it was his comedic roles that would define Gleason’s legacy. Whether playing the lovable "Ralph Kramden" on 'The Honeymooners,' the bumbling "Sheriff of Fractured Jaw" (1958), or his famous role in the 'Smokey and the Bandit' series (1977), where he portrayed the larger-than-life "Buford T. Justice," Gleason’s sense of timing and physical comedy was unparalleled. His chemistry with his co-stars, including Burt Reynolds in the 'Smokey and the Bandit' films, made him a standout performer in Hollywood.

In addition to his acting and comedic work, Jackie Gleason was also a talented musician. His love for music was well-known, and he played both the piano and the trombone. He released several albums of instrumental music, including 'Music for Lovers' (1952) and 'Gleason's Greatest Hits' (1960), which featured lush orchestral arrangements that showcased his sensitivity as a composer and conductor. His musical compositions were popular among fans and demonstrated his incredible range of artistic ability beyond just acting and comedy. However, Gleason’s personal life was far from the picture-perfect image he portrayed on television. He struggled with alcohol and weight issues throughout his life. His relationships were often turbulent, with multiple marriages and divorces. Though he had a devoted fanbase and a successful career, the personal demons he battled were a recurring theme in his later years.

As the years went on, Jackie Gleason’s health began to decline. His addiction to alcohol, coupled with his lifelong battle with obesity, put an enormous strain on his body. In the late 1970s and 1980s, Gleason’s work became less frequent, and he was largely absent from the public eye. He appeared in a few films, including 'The Sting II' (1983) and 'Nothing in Common' (1986), but his health was deteriorating. On June 24, 1987, Jackie Gleason passed away at the age of 71 from colon cancer. His death shocked the entertainment world and left fans mourning the loss of a man who had brought laughter and joy to millions. Though the cancer had been diagnosed only shortly before his death, Gleason had been in declining health for years, and his long battle with alcohol abuse and obesity had likely contributed to his weakened state.

His passing was a sad but not entirely unexpected conclusion to a life of excess and struggle. For many who had followed his career, his death felt like the end of an era in entertainment. Gleason had touched the hearts of many with his humor, his emotional depth, and his musical talent. He had been a true Renaissance man of the entertainment world, excelling in a variety of fields and leaving behind a diverse body of work.