Jack Carter, Comedian And Broadway Star, Dies At 93 From Respiratory Failure

Comedian and Emmy nominee Jack Carter has died of respiratory failure at age 93. Carter was best known for more than 50 guest appearances on “The Ed Sullivan Show,” as well as appearances on other variety programs, including “The Andy Williams Show” and “The Jackie Gleason Show."

Carter, who was among the TV pioneers of the late 1940s, turned 93 on June 24, just four days before his June 28 death. Variety confirmed that the actor died of respiratory failure in his home in Beverly Hills, California. The news was initially announced by a family representative.

The comedian had seven glorious decades in showbiz. He was also an actor, emcee, singer, mimic, dancer and director. He hosted “Cavalcade of Stars” in 1949, while managing to host his own variety show, “The Jack Carter Show,” which was part of NBC’s “Saturday Night Review.”

After “The Jack Carter Show,” the comedian never again had his own network series, although remained a popular guest star on “Alfred Hitchcock Presents” and “The Bob Hope Show.” In an interview with Britain's Telegraph, he admitted, “Maybe I come on too strong. Directors and producers fear you when you come on strong. They’re afraid they may not be able to control you. ”

E! News also noted some of his movie and TV appearances, starring in films such as "Viva Las Vegas" (1964); “The Happy Hooker Goes to Washington” (1977); and “Caged Fury” (1989). He also appeared in the series “Desperate Housewives,” “Monk,” “iCarly,” “Parks and Recreation,” “Family Guy,” “New Girl” and, in 2014, “Shameless.”

Carter also appeared in Broadway, in “Mr. Wonderful,” “Call Me Mister,” and “Top Banana.” As a director, his work included episodes of “Here’s Lucy” and plays including “A Thousand Clowns,” “Silver Anniversary” and “Mouth-Trap.” The Emmy-nominated actor also hosted the first-ever televised Tony Awards in 1956.

Carter is survived by four children -- sons Michael and Chase and daughters Vicki and Wendy -- and several grandchildren.