Milt Kamen was born on March 5, 1921, in Hurleyville, New York, USA, marking the beginning of a life filled with a unique blend of artistic expression and camaraderie.
As an actor, Kamen was known for his appearances in notable television shows such as Cade's County (1971),Mannix (1967),and Mother, Jugs & Speed (1976),showcasing his versatility and talent.
However, his passion lay not only in acting but also in music. As a symphony french horn player, he brought joy and laughter to the brass section, earning him a special place in the hearts of his colleagues.
Kamen's creative endeavors extended beyond acting and music. He was a talented writer, and his collaboration with Mel Brooks and Carl Reiner on Cid Caesar's Your Show of Shows (1950) remains a testament to his wit and humor. In fact, Kamen often served as Cid Caesar's stand-in, allowing him to offer his unique perspective on the show's sketches.
Mel Brooks, a close friend and collaborator, once shared words of wisdom with Kamen, urging him to "don't be too funny," a phrase that likely resonated with the comedian's playful nature. Kamen's connection to the entertainment world didn't stop there, as he also spent time with the legendary Groucho Marx, further solidifying his place in the annals of comedy history.
Throughout his career, Kamen was based primarily in New York City and its surrounding areas, where he became a familiar figure to many taxi drivers who would often hail him with a friendly "Hey Milt!" as they drove by. Later in life, he relocated to Los Angeles and Las Vegas, continuing to hone his craft and make a lasting impact on the world of comedy.
On April 8, 1969, Kamen married Margot Bankoff in New York City, and the couple remained together until his untimely passing on February 24, 1977, in Beverly Hills, California, USA.
One of Kamen's most notable accomplishments was the production of his comedy album "Here's Milt Kamen" (Capitol Records),which was expertly guided by Mel Brooks and featured a liner note written by none other than Groucho Marx, a testament to Kamen's enduring legacy in the world of comedy.
