Jack Cassidy, a talented actor, singer, writer, and designer, defied definition from birth in Richmond Hills, New York, in 1927, until his tragic death in 1976. A showman and creative entity, his life was never straightforward, yet his impact on the entertainment community was unmistakable and unforgettable.
Born to immigrant parents, Jack was the youngest of five children. By 16, he had worked 15 jobs, from busboy to dishwasher to ice truck driver. His uncle, a renowned circus contortionist, introduced him to show business, and at 16, Jack joined the chorus of "Something for the Boys." He quickly gained recognition for his acting talent and rich baritone voice, performing in various stage productions before landing his first lead role in "Wish You Were Here" in 1953.
Jack's career flourished, with notable roles in "Sandhog" and "Oklahoma!" He married dancer-choreographer Evelyn Ward in 1948, and they had a son, David, in 1950. Jack's television appearances included "Toast of the Town," "Lux Video Theatre," "The United Steel Hour," and "Richard Diamond, Private Detective."
In 1955, Jack was cast in the State Department European tour of "Oklahoma!" with Shirley Jones. Legally separated from Evelyn, Jack pursued Shirley and married her in 1956, with whom he had three sons: Shaun, Patrick, and Ryan. All four sons would carry on Jack's legacy in their own way, each with critically acclaimed careers in theater, film, and television.
Jack and Shirley collaborated on Broadway in "Maggie Flynn" (1968),recording albums, and touring with the nightclub act "The Marriage Band." As the 1960s transformed, Jack's career blossomed, earning a Tony for Best Featured Actor in 1963 for "She Loves Me" and multiple Tony nominations.
The West Coast beckoned, and Jack established himself in television, showcasing his versatility and range in dramatic, musical, and comedic performances on various shows. He even started his movie career, appearing in films such as "Look in Any Window," "The Chapman Report," and "Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol" (1962).
Jack's television presence swelled in the 1970s, becoming a staple of both dramatic programs and game shows. He was a frequent guest star on "Columbo" and appeared in numerous other shows, including "Barnaby Jones," "Matt Helm," "McCloud," "Hawaii Five-O," "Alias Smith and Jones," and "Bonanza."
Jack's film career in the 1970s included quirky roles in "Bunny O'Hare," "The Eiger Sanction," "The Cockeyed Cowboys of Calico County," and "W.C. Fields and Me." Tragically, he had just started receiving solid, dramatic roles before his death in 1976.
Like the character he created on "He & She," Jack Cassidy was undeniably larger than life. His notorious sense of humor made him the life of the party, and his friends and fans included Dick Van Dyke, Jack Lemmon, and Dick Van Patten. Jack was the ultimate example of the classic leading man, with his charisma, dashing grin, and sparkling eyes. His golden baritone voice will forever set him apart, and his talent will never be matched.
