Eddie Fisher's television career began in 1953 with his own fifteen-minute show, Coke Time, sponsored by the Coca-Cola company. This show's immense popularity led to a $1 million contract with the company, making Eddie one of the most sought-after national spokespersons. By 1954, Eddie had become a household name, with his music career soaring to new heights.
In 1955, Eddie married the lovely Debbie Reynolds, and their daughter Carrie Fisher was born the following year. The family expanded in 1958 with the arrival of their son, Todd Fisher. Tragedy struck in 1958 when Eddie's best friend, Mike Todd, died in a plane crash, leaving his widow Elizabeth Taylor devastated.
Eddie's personal life took a scandalous turn when rumors of his affair with Elizabeth Taylor surfaced, causing a media frenzy. The fallout from the scandal damaged Eddie's career, while Elizabeth's star continued to rise, earning her an Academy Award for her role in Butterfield 8 in 1960. The pair went on to star in Cleopatra in 1963, alongside Richard Burton, sparking another high-profile romance and divorce.
Eddie's television show had long since disappeared, and his music career had slowed down. He continued to perform on stage in Las Vegas, New York, and smaller venues. In the late 1960s, he married Connie Stevens, with whom he had two daughters, Joely Fisher and Tricia Leigh Fisher. The couple divorced in 1968.
Eddie has written two autobiographies, the most recent being "Been There, Done That," which generated controversy due to some of the women in his past, including Debbie Reynolds, not approving of his portrayal of them. Despite this, Eddie deserves credit for owning up to his mistakes, which contributed to the decline of his career.
Sadly, Eddie's fifth wife, Betty Lin, passed away from lung cancer on April 15, 2001.
