Murray Lerman, a multifaceted artist who would later gain notoriety under the moniker B.S. Pully, embarked on his journey on May 14, 1910, in the vibrant city of Newark, New Jersey.
Pully's remarkable and distinguished career in the entertainment industry commenced on the illustrious and legendary Borscht Belt, a prestigious and celebrated resort area nestled in the majestic Catskill Mountains of New York, where he refined his exceptional comedic abilities and cultivated a distinctive and captivating stage presence.
The individual in question garnered widespread acclaim and recognition for his memorable and iconic portrayal of Big Jule in the original Broadway production of Guys and Dolls, a role that he not only originated but also performed an astonishing number of times, exceeding 1,000 performances.
Pully's illustrious career boasts an impressive array of accomplishments, including a memorable film appearance as the rugged and gruff Christmas tree vendor in the 1945 cinematic masterpiece, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, which has stood the test of time as a beloved classic.
Additionally, Pully's impressive repertoire of roles includes a notable performance as Joe the Bartender in the 1945 film, Nob Hill, a cinematic gem that showcases his versatility as an actor and his ability to bring depth and nuance to his characters.
Noted for his remarkable flair for the dramatic, Pully's remarkable blue humor, a hallmark of his illustrious career, consistently delighted audiences with its unique brand of wit and satire, while his distinctive, gravelly voice, a sonic signature of his impressive performances, imbued his words with an added layer of depth, texture, and character, making him a true master of his craft.
Pully's existence was unfortunately abbreviated when he succumbed to mortality on January 6, 1972, at the tender age of 61, as a result of a devastating heart attack that struck without warning, ultimately claiming his life at the esteemed Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, a renowned medical facility located in the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
He was ceremoniously laid to eternal rest within the serene confines of Cedar Park Cemetery, a tranquil oasis nestled in the heart of Emerson, New Jersey, where his legacy endures and is perpetually revered by devoted fans and admirers of his remarkable body of work, who continue to pay homage to his memory in a testament to his enduring impact and influence.
