Paul Lynde, an American comedian and actor born on June 13, 1926, in Mount Vernon, Ohio, is most famous for his witty remarks on the TV game show, The Hollywood Squares.
After completing his studies at Northwestern University in 1948, Lynde initiated his career with stand-up comedy in New York and made his Broadway entrance in 1952.
He earned acclaim for his performance in “Bye Bye Birdie” during 1960-61. Transitioning to television in 1952, his significant roles included The Munsters, The Beverly Hillbillies and Bewitched, where he played Uncle Arthur from 1965 to 1971.
He gained immense popularity on The Hollywood Squares, serving as a mainstay from 1968 to 1979.
Rumors about Lynde’s sexuality circulated, but he never publicly confirmed being gay.
He initiated his film career in 1963 with roles in movies such as Son of Flubber, Beach Blanket Bingo and Charlotte’s Web.
I have compiled the best quotes from Paul Lynde in this blog post.
Best Paul Lynde Quotes
If I ever completely lost my nervousness I would be frightened half to death. ~ Paul Lynde.
It was the worst moment of my life. The producer came up and talked me back into going on stage. ~ Paul Lynde.
I don’t know who the hell Paul Lynde is, or why he’s funny, and I prefer it to be a mystery to me. ~ (Paul Lynde)
I’m Liberace without a piano. ~ (Paul Lynde)
I think basically an actor is a salesman. ~ (Paul Lynde)
The dining room in my old house was truly magnificent but by far the worst room for conversation. I’d get up from the table, a very long table, and somebody would always say, Paul, I never got to talk to you. ~ (Paul Lynde)
Sandwiches are wonderful. You don’t need a spoon or a plate! ~ (Paul Lynde)
Peter Marshall: A western saddle has a curved horn on the front to hold something for the cowboy. What is it? ~ (Paul Lynde)
My kitchen is not a place to live in. I made it white so I can tell instantly if it’s not clean-and I like it clean enough to be able to eat off the floors-or the tables, for that matter. ~ Paul Lynde.
The doctor’s name was Sylvia. I told her she’d have a problem with me because Sylvia was my mother’s name. ~ (Paul Lynde)
I feel now it’s useless to keep hoping. The way things are today, we live in a world that needs laughter, and I’ve decided if I can make people laugh, I’m making a more important contribution. ~ (Paul Lynde)
Top Paul Lynde Quotes
Women are my best friends, my best audience. If I look out from the stage and see a lot of men, I know I’m in trouble. ~ (Paul Lynde)
I often go on a liquid fast a couple of days a week. I never take just water. Instead, I’ll have maybe six glasses of vegetable and fruit juices a day. ~ (Paul Lynde).
A closet full of wire hangers can be the most dangerous place in the world. ~ (Paul Lynde)
An actor shouldn’t undergo psychoanalysis, because there are a lot of things you’re better off not knowing. ~ (Paul Lynde)
I don’t understand why people don’t remember my name. ~ (Paul Lynde)
I don’t always prepare such rich meals. Sometimes I’ll just serve a simple quiche, salad and dessert for dinner. During the week I try to eat lightly. ~ (Paul Lynde)
My sisters said, Why do you make those faces? You make yourself so ugly. ~ (Paul Lynde)
Famous Paul Lynde Quotes
I have an ulcer. It has an IQ of 185. ~ (Paul Lynde)
I have this beautiful antique silver wine decanter that I bought at an auction. I always pour wine from that. ~ (Paul Lynde)
A room is like a stage. If you see it without lighting, it can be the coldest place in the world. ~ (Paul Lynde)
Comedy is exaggerated realism. It can be stretched to the almost ludicrous, but it must always be believable. ~ (Paul Lynde).
My following is straight. I’m so glad. ~ (Paul Lynde)
My dad was a ham, too. He could sell those women anything. Of all his sons, I was the only one he could trust to sell as well as he could. I was proud of that. ~ (Paul Lynde)
As far as cookbooks go, I think Joy of Cooking is a classic. I’ve used it over and over again. Julia Child frustrates me. By the time you get all her herbs together, you’re exhausted. ~ (Paul Lynde).
Inspiring Paul Lynde Quotes
I may find something that looks interesting and then go on to alter the recipe by adding spices, things of my own. I also look for time-saving recipes, dishes that can be prepared ahead and stored. ~ (Paul Lynde)
I laughed all the way through Love Story. ~ (Paul Lynde)
Someday I’m going to go onstage in a dress if I want to. ~ (Paul Lynde)
My table seats eight, so that’s my maximum. Having a small number of guests is the only way to generate good conversation. Besides, your whole house doesn’t get wrecked that way. ~ (Paul Lynde)
The whole romantic part of my life was a wipeout. I didn’t even own a belt. ~ (Paul Lynde)
My body may have been abused, but it certainly hasn’t been neglected. ~ (Paul Lynde)
I can’t even get three weeks off to have cosmetic surgery. ~ (Paul Lynde)
When I said I didn’t have a cent, I didn’t. I used to get annoyed with people who said they were broke when they had five dollars. ~ (Paul Lynde)
I wish I had the nerve not to tip. ~ (Paul Lynde)
I was obsessed with being rich and famous. ~ (Paul Lynde)
Mothers don’t want to pinch me or put me in their purse. ~ (Paul Lynde)
Learning lines is on my mind until I do know them. I’ll read the paper or paint the house to keep from starting to memorize. I’ve never found an easy way. ~ (Paul Lynde).
I sang in the choir for years, even though my family belonged to another church. ~ (Paul Lynde)
Food was a constant topic of conversation in our household. ~ (Paul Lynde)
If I hadn’t become a celebrity, I’d probably be an alcoholic. ~ (Paul Lynde)
I can’t stand those food cult people who bring their own food into the house. All those little thermoses and paper bags-it makes the other guests uncomfortable. ~ (Paul Lynde)
Outsiders develop humor as a defense; why do you think most comedians are gay or Jewish? ~ (Paul Lynde).
So these were the 43 quotes from Paul Lynde.
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Short Biography of Paul Lynde
Paul Lynde was an influential American comedian and actor, celebrated for his roles on TV shows and in animated films.
He gained fame playing Uncle Arthur on “Bewitched” and Harry MacAfee in “Bye Bye Birdie,” and was a favorite on “The Hollywood Squares” from 1968 to 1981.
Known for his unique, humorous persona, Lynde also voiced characters for Hanna-Barbera.
| Full Name | Paul Edward Lynde |
| Born | June 13, 1926 Mount Vernon, Ohio, U.S. |
| Died | January 10, 1982 (aged 55) Beverly Hills, California, U.S. |
| Resting place | Amity Cemetery, Amity, Ohio, U.S. |
| Parents | Hoy Lynde, Sylvia Bell |
| Siblings | John Lynde, Cordon Lynde, Helen Lynde, Grace Lynde, Richard Lynde |
| Alma mater | Northwestern University |
| Occupations | Comedian, Actor, TV Personality |
| Years active | 1954–1982 |
| Notable work | Bewitched, Bye Bye Birdie, Hollywood Squares |
Despite preferring serious roles, he embraced making people laugh, considering it his significant contribution.
Born in Ohio, Lynde was a Northwestern University graduate and participated extensively in theater during his college years.
Quick Facts about Paul Lynde
- Paul Lynde was born on June 13, 1926.
- He was born on a Friday the 13th, adding a unique twist to his comedic persona.
- Lynde was celebrated for his quick-witted humor and clever one-liners.
- He became a household name as the center square on “The Hollywood Squares.”
- Lynde voiced Templeton the Rat in the animated classic “Charlotte’s Web.”
- His memorable role as Uncle Arthur on “Bewitched” brought many laughs.
- He won a Primetime Emmy Award for his work on “The Paul Lynde Halloween Special.”
- Lynde was one of the first openly gay celebrities in Hollywood.
- He made frequent appearances on “The Dean Martin Show.”
- “The Paul Lynde Show” allowed him to star in his own variety show.
- Lynde played Harry MacAfee in the musical film “Bye Bye Birdie.”
- His distinctive voice and laughter became his trademarks.
- He appeared on multiple episodes of “The Ed Sullivan Show.”
- Lynde had a successful stint in game show appearances, including “Password” and “Match Game.”
- He provided the voice for Claude Pertwee in “Where’s Huddles?”
- Known for his love of practical jokes, he often pranked friends and co-stars.
- He starred alongside Doris Day in “The Glass Bottom Boat.”
- Lynde had a recurring role on the sitcom “Gidget.”
- He released a comedy album titled “Paul Lynde at the Movies.”
- Lynde was a frequent guest on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson.”
- His guest role on “Love, American Style” was particularly memorable.
- Lynde’s comedic style made him a trailblazer in the entertainment industry.
- His sharp wit and distinctive voice left a lasting impact on comedy.
- Despite personal struggles, he maintained his humorous presence on screen.
- Lynde’s ability to engage audiences made him a beloved figure in entertainment.
- His legacy continues as his performances remain iconic in the comedy world.
- Lynde’s career spanned various mediums including film, TV, and theater.
- He embraced his identity openly, influencing many in the entertainment industry.
- His role in “Hollywood Squares” showcased his ability to deliver spontaneous humor.
- Paul Lynde’s life was a blend of public acclaim and private challenges.
Top Questions about Paul Lynde
A: Paul Lynde is famous for his role as Uncle Arthur on the TV show “Bewitched” and for being a regular panelist on “Hollywood Squares.”
A: Paul Lynde became a star after debuting on “The Hollywood Squares” in 1966, where he quickly became a fan favorite due to his witty persona.
A: Paul Lynde was not openly gay during his lifetime, but he is recognized as one of the early gay actors who found success in mainstream media.
A: Among his memorable roles, Paul Lynde is celebrated for playing Uncle Arthur on “Bewitched,” the confused father Harry MacAfee in “Bye Bye Birdie,” and as a charismatic “center square” on “The Hollywood Squares.”
A: Yes, Paul Lynde won two Primetime Emmy Awards for his role on “Hollywood Squares” in 1972 and 1974.
A: Paul Lynde died under unclear circumstances in January 1982 at age 55, possibly from a heart attack, after a year of battling an undisclosed illness.
A: Several biographies and films have been made about Paul Lynde, including the biography “Center Square: The Paul Lynde Story” by Steve Wilson, and various documentaries exploring his life and career.
A: Paul Lynde was known for his quick, sharp wit and his ability to deliver cutting one-liners and humorous innuendos, which made him a standout comedian of his time.
