1. Hank Bradford, head writer for Johnny Carson’s ‘Tonight Show,’ dies at 88
2. Hank Bradford, head writer for Johnny Carson’s ‘Tonight Show,’ passes away at 88.
Hank Bradford, Former Head Writer for “The Tonight Show” and “The Late Show,” Passes Away at 88
Remembering Hank Bradford
Hank Bradford, the renowned head writer for “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson” and “The Late Show Starring Joan Rivers,” has passed away at the age of 88. His family announced his death on January 18 in Los Angeles. The cause of his passing was congestive heart failure, according to his daughter Stephanie Brenowitz.
A Legacy in Late-Night Comedy
From 1970 to 1975, Bradford served as the head writer for Johnny Carson’s iconic “The Tonight Show”. His impeccable sense of humor and his ability to lead with sanity in the midst of the weird and chaotic world of comedy writing made him admired and beloved by his fellow writers. Above his desk at “The Tonight Show,” there was a sign that read: “It left here funny.” Bradford was responsible for creating memorable skits, including the famous Carnac the Magnificent. He led a team of writers who scoured newspapers and magazines daily to gather topical material, crafting dozens of potential jokes for Carson to deliver on the show.
In a feature written by journalist and Carson writer Bill Majeski, Bradford’s writing room was described as a place where writers communicated using monosyllabic utterings. It was Bradford’s job to coax audible whimsies from them, and he did it with finesse. Bradford’s leadership skills were evident, and he knew how to turn a witty remark into a true gem.
A Life in the Entertainment Industry
Hank Bradford’s life in the entertainment industry extended beyond “The Tonight Show.” In 1986 and 1987, he served as the head writer for “The Late Show Starring Joan Rivers.” He also wrote episodes for popular TV shows like “MASH” and “Three’s Company.” His contributions to the world of comedy were significant and impactful.
Born Henry Brenowitz in Brooklyn on May 7, 1935, Bradford came from a family of Jewish refugees from Russian-occupied Poland. He obtained an advertising degree from Long Island University before being drafted into the U.S. Army in 1958. During his service, he worked as an intelligence analyst and radio host in Okinawa, Japan.
After returning to the United States, Bradford began his career as a comic, performing at renowned nightclubs and variety shows. He even had the opportunity to be an opening act for well-known artists such as Simon & Garfunkel, the Temptations, and Jack Jones.
Bradford adopted the stage name “Hank Bradford” during his time touring comedy clubs in the 1960s due to the rampant anti-Semitism present in that era. By using a different name, he could perform in places that would not have welcomed Jewish performers.
Later in life, Bradford co-founded a comedy troupe called “Yarmy’s Army” in 1992. The troupe was named after his friend, Dick Yarmy, who was undergoing cancer treatment. They toured the country to raise funds for comedians in need, showcasing Bradford’s dedication to supporting his fellow entertainers.
Remembering Hank Bradford
Hank Bradford is survived by his wife Patricia Bradford, his daughters Stephanie Brenowitz and Sally Bradford McKenna, his sons Matt Bohm and William McLaughlin, and his five grandchildren. His legacy will continue to live on through his contributions to the world of comedy and his impact on late-night television.
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– Hank Bradford, head writer for Johnny Carson’s ‘Tonight Show,’ dies at 88
– Hank Bradford, head writer for Johnny Carson’s ‘Tonight Show,’ passes away at 88.
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