Today we honor an extremely special Forgotten Diva, and that is Paul Lynde (1926-1982). There are far too many reasons why this rare individual must be revered, not the least of which is his work as the immortal Center Square. Face it, for all practical purposes he WAS "Hollywood Squares" (as one viewing of its current incarnation will quickly show!), and for years America was enthralled by his quick, sardonic, and razor-sharp wit. For Paul Lynde embodied the exhalted archetype of the Bitter Queen, and television was his throne. His destiny as a Forgotten Diva can be seen from the beginning: in college at Northwestern University, his BEST FRIENDS were Charlotte Rae and Cloris Leachman! His big break came when he was "discovered" by the immortal Kaye Ballard! He himself later "discovered" Wayland Flowers & Madame---reason enough for canonization! His films include "Bye Bye Birdie" and "Beach Blanket Bingo", and he had a recurring role on "Bewitched". Obviously the letter "B" was important to him. So was the letter "D", as Drink and Drama were major parts of this Diva's personal life. Yet it is the laughter we will remember. And plenty was supplied on his many television specials, which included a veritable Who's Who of Forgotten Divas: Nancy Walker, Florence Henderson, Margaret Hamilton, Betty White, Billie Hayes (Witchiepoo!), Tony Randall, Vickie Lawrence, Alice Ghostley, Anne Meara, Martha Raye, Brenda Vacarro, and Charo. Need we say more? WE DON'T THINK SO!!!!
PAUL LYNDE WAS A TOTAL DIVA. NEVER FORGET THAT!!!
Paul Lynde: Comedy Legend, Gay Icon & All That!
a Paul Lynde Timeline
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