Beloved Actress Joyce Randolph Passes Away at 99
NEW YORK (AP) — The entertainment industry mourns the loss of Joyce Randolph, a veteran stage and television actor who captured the hearts of millions with her role as the smart and sassy Trixie Norton on the hit show “The Honeymooners”. Randolph passed away peacefully on Saturday night at her home on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. She was 99 years old.
A Lasting Legacy
Randolph was the last surviving main character from the beloved comedy series that aired during television’s golden age in the 1950s. Her portrayal of Trixie Norton, the witty wife of Ed Norton, provided the perfect balance to her dimwitted TV husband Ralph Kramden, played by Jackie Gleason. The show, an affectionate look at Brooklyn tenement life, resonated with audiences and became one of the all-time favorites of television comedy.
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Originally introduced as a recurring skit on Gleason’s variety show, “Cavalcade of Stars,” “The Honeymooners” quickly gained popularity and eventually became a full-fledged series. The 39 episodes produced became a staple of syndicated programming, captivating audiences all over the country and beyond.
A Tribute to Randolph’s Talent
Randolph’s exceptional talent shone through in her role as Trixie Norton, and she quickly became a household name. Even decades after leaving the show, she remained adored by fans and received countless letters expressing admiration for her work. Her regular visits to the downstairs bar at Sardi’s allowed her to connect with patrons who recognized her from the iconic portrait of the show’s four characters hanging over the bar.
Reflecting on her impact, Randolph once said, “I didn’t miss a thing by not working all the time. I didn’t want a nanny raising my wonderful son.” Her decision to focus on motherhood and family life after her time on “The Honeymooners” showcased her priorities and the depth of her character.
Remembering a Television Icon
Randolph’s legacy as Trixie Norton continues to resonate with audiences even today. Her son once recounted how people would approach him at Yale, asking if his mom was indeed the beloved Trixie. This realization made Randolph aware of the lasting impact she had on television viewers.
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While her role as Trixie brought her widespread recognition, Randolph also faced challenges in her career. Some directors were hesitant to cast her due to her association with the iconic character. However, her talent and dedication to her craft never wavered, and she continued to make a lasting impression on stage and screen.
A Life Well-Lived
Joyce Randolph, born Joyce Sirola in Detroit in 1924, began her acting career in her late teens and quickly made a name for herself on Broadway and in television. She shared the screen with legendary stars such as Eddie Cantor, Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis, Danny Thomas, and Fred Allen.
After her retirement from the entertainment industry, Randolph remained active in the theater community and supported various causes, including the U.S.O. She cherished her time spent at Broadway openings and fundraisers, as well as her visits to her favorite Manhattan haunts.
Randolph’s husband, Richard Lincoln, served as the president of the Lambs Club, a theatrical club, and she was known as the “first lady” during their time together. They had one son, Charles.
The passing of Joyce Randolph marks the end of an era in television history. Her talent, charm, and dedication to her craft will always be remembered, and her legacy as Trixie Norton will continue to entertain and inspire audiences for generations to come.
AP Film Writer Lindsey Bahr contributed to this report.
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