Veteran comedian-actor Mitzi McCall is no more. According to Variety, McCall breathed her last on Thursday in Burbank. She was 93.
Mitzi McCall will always be celebrated for her remarkable work alongside her husband, actor and comedian Charlie Brill, forming the beloved comedy duo McCall and Brill. The pair became television staples, appearing on numerous variety shows and captivating audiences for decades. One of their most unforgettable moments occurred on The Ed Sullivan Show during The Beatles’ American debut in 1964, a performance etched in television history.
McCall’s journey into the showbiz world started in the late 1940s with a stage debut at the Pittsburgh Playhouse in the production of ‘Strange Bedfellows’ in 1948. By the early 1950s, she had already made a name for herself as a versatile and engaging performer, hosting the Kiddie Castle program on KDKA-TV in Pittsburgh.
Her career continued to rise, and by 1953, McCall was featured on “Studio 10” on KGTV in San Diego, California. Her decades-long career saw her appear in numerous popular television shows, including “Rowan and Martin’s Laugh-In,” “Life Goes On,” “Silk Stalkings,” “Seinfeld,” “Roseanne,” “Dharma and Greg,” “Becker,” “The Twilight Zone,” and “The Suite Life of Zack and Cody.” Each of these appearances showcased her incredible range and ability to connect with audiences.
McCall also found tremendous success as a voice-over artist, lending her voice to beloved characters in animated series such as “Snorks,” “Mother Goose and Grimm,” “The Pebbles and Bamm-Bamm Show,” “The Flintstones,” and “The Jetsons.” Her versatility in voice acting further extended to the animated feature “Ice Age,” where she voiced Glyptodon.
Her film career included roles in “The White Palace,” “The Cry Baby Killer,” “Machine-Gun Kelly,” “War of the Satellites,” and “Young at Heart,” allowing her to work alongside entertainment legends such as Jerry Lewis, Dean Martin, and Robin Williams. As a screenwriter, she contributed to television shows like “Eight is Enough,” “One Day at a Time,” “Alf,” and “Charles in Charge,” demonstrating her multifaceted talent.
In addition to her professional achievements, Mitzi McCall was also a mentor and guiding light to many in the entertainment industry.
. Known for her warmth, generosity, and unwavering support for her fellow performers, she made an indelible impact on the lives of those who had the privilege of working with her. According to her publicist, McCall embodied a spirit of kindness that set her apart in an industry known for its competitiveness.
Her legacy extends beyond her professional work. Mitzi McCall leaves behind her husband of 64 years, Charlie Brill, who was not just her life partner but also her constant collaborator. Together, McCall and Brill provided audiences with countless laughs and memorable moments, solidifying their place in the annals of entertainment history.
Their daughter Jenny, and nieces Toni Howard and Wendy Goldberg, also survive McCall, carrying forward the family’s strong tradition in the arts. The loss of Mitzi McCall represents the end of an era for many in Hollywood, but her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of comedians and actors.
Reflecting on her career, it is evident that Mitzi McCall’s influence was far-reaching. Her ability to seamlessly transition between genres and mediums showcased her remarkable talent and resilience. From live stage performances to television shows and animated series, she demonstrated an unparalleled dedication to her craft.
In a career that spanned several decades, McCall adapted to numerous changes in the entertainment industry, always remaining relevant and engaging. Her work with Charlie Brill, particularly their performances as the comedy duo McCall and Brill, remains a testament to their comedic genius and chemistry.
Mitzi McCall’s passing is a profound loss to the entertainment community. Yet, as we remember her contributions and celebrate her life, we acknowledge the lasting legacy she leaves behind. Her humor, creativity, and generosity have left an indelible mark on Hollywood and beyond.
As the industry mourns the loss of this iconic performer, it also celebrates her extraordinary life and the countless smiles she brought to audiences around the world.
