The Honeymooners Star Joyce Randolph Dies at Age 99
New York City has lost a beloved stage and television actress with the passing of Joyce Randolph, best known for her role as the quick-witted Trixie Norton on the hit show “The Honeymooners.” Randolph passed away at the age of 99 from natural causes, according to her son Randolph Charles.
With her passing, Randolph became the last surviving main character from the beloved comedy series that graced television screens during the golden age of the 1950s. “The Honeymooners” provided an affectionate portrayal of Brooklyn tenement life, drawing inspiration from star Jackie Gleason’s own childhood experiences. Gleason played the loud and blustery bus driver Ralph Kramden, while Audrey Meadows portrayed his sharp-tongued and strong-willed wife Alice. Art Carney brought charm to the role of the cheerful sewer worker Ed Norton, while Randolph’s Trixie offered a sarcastic counterpoint to her dimwitted TV husband.
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Throughout the show’s run, Alice and Trixie found themselves commiserating over their husbands’ various follies and mishaps. Whether unknowingly marketing dog food as a popular snack or attempting to resist a rent hike, the two women provided comedic relief and relatable moments for viewers. One of Randolph’s favorite episodes featured Ed sleepwalking, with his character hilariously calling out for his wife Thelma, unaware of her real name.
A Beloved Comedy Series That Stood the Test of Time
Originally starting as a recurring skit on Gleason’s variety show, “Cavalcade of Stars,” “The Honeymooners” quickly gained popularity. The show’s success led to Gleason switching networks and bringing “The Honeymooners” along with him to “The Jackie Gleason Show.” In 1955-56, the show became a full-fledged series, consisting of 39 episodes that would go on to become syndication staples across the country and beyond.
In a 2007 interview with The New York Times, Randolph revealed that she received no compensation in residuals for her work on those 39 episodes. However, she did start receiving royalties later on when “lost” episodes from the variety hours were discovered. Despite her success on “The Honeymooners,” Randolph made the decision to retire from acting and focus on her marriage and motherhood, emphasizing the importance of being present in her son’s life.
A Lasting Legacy and Cherished Memories
Even after leaving the show, Joyce Randolph continued to receive admiration and support from fans. She received countless letters each week and remained a regular visitor to the downstairs bar at Sardi’s, where a portrait of the sitcom’s four characters adorned the walls. Randolph’s impact on television viewers truly hit her in the early 1980s when her son revealed that people would approach him at Yale University, asking if his mother was really Trixie.
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Despite the limitations her iconic role placed on her career, Randolph maintained a positive outlook. Directors often hesitated to cast her, fearing that audiences would only see her as Trixie. However, her talent and charm remained undeniable.
With the passing of Joyce Randolph, the last surviving main cast member, “The Honeymooners” has truly come to an end. Jackie Gleason, Audrey Meadows, and Art Carney have already left us, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and unforgettable characters. Joyce Randolph’s portrayal of Trixie Norton will forever hold a special place in the hearts of fans worldwide.
Joyce Randolph, born Joyce Sirola in Detroit in 1924, began her career in theater and Broadway shows. She made numerous television appearances alongside stars like Eddie Cantor, Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis, Danny Thomas, and Fred Allen. Her first encounter with Jackie Gleason occurred during a Clorets commercial on “Cavalcade of Stars,” leading to a lasting friendship and the iconic role of Trixie Norton.
Throughout her retirement, Randolph continued to be involved in the entertainment industry, attending Broadway openings and fundraisers. She also actively supported the U.S.O. and frequented her favorite Manhattan establishments, including Angus, Chez Josephine, and the Lambs Club. Her husband, Richard Lincoln, served as the president of the Lambs Club, and she proudly held the title of “first lady.”
Joyce Randolph’s contributions to the world of entertainment will be remembered and cherished for years to come. Her infectious humor and talent brought joy to millions, and her legacy will continue to live on.
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AP Film Writer Lindsey Bahr contributed to this report.
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