Red Buttons

Red Buttons, born Aaron Chwatt on February 5, 1919, in the bitter cold of Lower East Side Manhattan, emerged as a multifaceted entertainer whose career spanned comedy, television, film, and the evolving landscape of American performance art. His Jewish immigrant parents, Sophie and Michael Chwatt, represented the archetypal New York melting pot experience, managing a tenement life while dreaming of lofty futures for their children. It would be these humble beginnings that would deeply imbue Red's persona with an earnest understanding of the universal desire for connection through humor. Chwatt's journey from the streets of New York to the pantheon of American entertainment began rather serendipitously. He adopted the stage name "Red Buttons" during his teenage years while working as a bellboy and performer. Those who frequented Ryan’s Tavern in the Bronx found themselves captivated by his vibrant red hair and infectious spirit, and it was here that the nickname "Red" was given, with "Buttons" tacked on thanks to the uniform he wore, which was graced with dozens of buttons. In the 1940s, Red entered the pulsating world of burlesque and vaudeville—a domain that would finely hone his comedic skills. The wartime era offered myriad avenues for performers, and Red's talents translated well into this chaotic yet opportunistic epoch. His stint with the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II was marked not by combat, but by the equally patriotic duty of entertaining the troops, a task that would shape his perspective on comedy as a form of resilience and morale-boosting. Red Buttons' career trajectory took a momentous turn in 1952 with the introduction of "The Red Buttons Show," a television variety show that offered a platform for his versatility as a comedian and actor. The show proved to be a nationwide hit, with Buttons winning an Emmy Award in 1954 for Best Comedian, solidifying his status as a household name. The program, praised for its innovation, featured skits, parodies, and musically infused comedy, appealing to a post-war audience craving light-hearted escape. Though the show lasted only until 1955 due to declining ratings, it remains a crucial piece in the mosaic of 1950s American television history. The next chapter in Red Buttons' extensive career brought him to the doorstep of Hollywood. His role in the 1957 film "Sayonara," alongside Marlon Brando, marked his dramatic breakthrough. Portraying Sergeant Joe Kelly, a soldier who defies social conventions for the love of a Japanese woman, Buttons delivered a performance that poignantly addressed racial and cultural barriers. This work resonated with both audiences and critics alike, earning him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. It was a paradigm shift, signifying his transcendence from comedian to credible actor. Though Red continued to work predominantly in film and television following "Sayonara," his portfolio showcased a range of talents that defied typecasting. Notable performances included roles in films like "The Longest Day" (1962), a reflection of his enduring connection to themes of war and heroism, and "They Shoot Horses, Don’t They?" (1969), a film about the desperate human condition during the Great Depression. His television work often saw him making appearances on variety shows and game shows like "Hollywood Squares," demonstrating his ability to adapt to the ever-evolving nature of entertainment. Throughout his career, Red Buttons maintained a palpable connection with the audience. His comedic style, often rooted in the robust traditions of vaudeville and the quick wit of Jewish humor, transcended generations. This ability to adapt was complemented by a genuine warmth and an everyman charm, which endeared him to a wide spectrum of the viewing public. His catchphrase, "The Ho-Ho Song," became emblematic of this charm—a humorous, yet heartfelt reminder of his roots in vaudeville. Beyond his accolades and performances, Red Buttons remained, to those who knew him best, an indefatigable spirit. His professional resilience mirrored his personal resolve, marked by triumphs against the typical Hollywood trials and a keen insight into the transient nature of fame. Married three times, Red experienced the heartfelt joys and struggles that come with personal connections outside the spotlight. Red Buttons passed away on July 13, 2006, at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with the history of American entertainment. His life mirrored an evolution—from a bellboy dreaming of stardom to a respected figure in comedic and dramatic performance. Red made his indelible mark not only through unforgettable roles and infectious comedy but in his broader understanding of the cultural fabric that is woven through laughter and heartfelt storytelling. His enduring contribution to entertainment stands as a testament to his talent, his resilience, and his profound capacity to touch the human spirit. The saga of Red Buttons is a vibrant thread in the tapestry of performing arts history, a reminder of a time when the world sought refuge and joy through the power of humor and compelling storytelling.