Collecting autographs and meeting celebrities for as long as I have teaches you a few things. For one, when you see someone particularly old – say over 90, for example – who is selling autographed photos of themselves, you’d better pay pretty close attention as to who they are. Because needless to say, there likely won’t be any more chances to get them. And secondly, if they have a photo of themselves with the Beatles on their table, it’s probably worth snatching up.
Such was the case with Marty Allen – who at the time of the Hollywood Show on October 5, 2013, was 91 years old – had a photo of himself with his comedic partner Steve Rossi (who at the time was also still living…but not any longer) from The Ed Sullivan Show, mugging with the Beatles. Yes, the Beatles.
So never mind the fact that I hadn’t honestly heard of Allen & Rossi, this most certainly validated an encounter. In this case, I can’t really blame myself for not knowing him. Although he had been on about 40 episodes of The Ed Sullivan Show, he was primarily a stand-up comedian in the 1950’s and 60’s, so obviously that was a little bit before my time.
I may have also run into him in television land on such shows as Night Gallery or The Big Valley…but I’ve never been a huge fan of either…or game shows like Hollywood Squares or Password…but I’ve never really had access to either.
But what I quickly learned is that in some circles, he is considered a legend, and some know that his catchphrase is “Hello Dere.”And he was also a friendly sort, posing for free photos with both Carolyn and me even though it was supposed to cost an extra $20 for the photo op over the $20 for the autograph.
I’d say I didn’t go wrong with this one. Marty Allen is 92 now and I’ve met him…and he’s met the Beatles. So dere.
Celebrity encounters from the Fall 2013 Hollywood Show will continue…
Yes, Marty was a good find for you. I loved him on Hollywood Squares and has always been a great guy when meeting him! Glad you got in that encounter!
Bob
December 29th, 2014