The Hidden Life of Fred Gwynne Herman Munster

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 27 ส.ค. 2022
  • Today Cool Classics looks at the Life of Fred Gwynne, best known for playing Herman Munster on TV but there is a lot more to his story.
    From Television shows like Sgt. Bilko and Car 54 Where Are You?
    To Broadway Productions such as, Cat On A Hot Tin Roof and Here's Love.
    His personal life was always hidden.
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ความคิดเห็น • 3.5K

  • @bluesalamander9491
    @bluesalamander9491 ปีที่แล้ว +94

    Thanks!

    • @CoolClassics
      @CoolClassics  ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Steve, Thank You so much for the support!
      So glad that you enjoyed the video! 😁👍

    • @donaldlindberg1698
      @donaldlindberg1698 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@CoolClassicsp😊😊

    • @theresa4797
      @theresa4797 ปีที่แล้ว

      ​@@CoolClassics 00

    • @georgewheeler193
      @georgewheeler193 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Sister of that picture< thank goodness they changed Marilyn and Eddie!!! Perfect casting!!!

    • @arthurkarsesnick1629
      @arthurkarsesnick1629 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Still alive Aaron Judge.

  • @CarboniteDreamer
    @CarboniteDreamer ปีที่แล้ว +481

    "The lesson i want you to learn is it doesn't matter what you look like. You can be tall or short or fat or thin or ugly or handsome, like your father, or you can be black or yellow or white. It doesn't matter. What does matter is the size of your heart and the strength of your character." - Herman Munster

    • @CoolClassics
      @CoolClassics  ปีที่แล้ว +9

      👍😁

    • @GraceandWisdom
      @GraceandWisdom ปีที่แล้ว +6

      In which episode was this said?

    • @CarboniteDreamer
      @CarboniteDreamer ปีที่แล้ว +20

      @@GraceandWisdom Season 1 episode 19 Eddie's Nickname

    • @Dusk1962
      @Dusk1962 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      @@CarboniteDreamer awesome advice.

    • @larryweaver1729
      @larryweaver1729 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      I remember that episode

  • @glenmo1
    @glenmo1 ปีที่แล้ว +1995

    I was a limousine driver in the 1980s and one night I saw grandpa Al Lewis coming in to laguardia walking past me in the terminal... He had a wrinkled Dusty overcoat on.. his luggage was a gym bag like we used to have for our gym clothes in elementary school just a bag with a string flung over his shoulder! And he had a stogie in his mouth... He looked just like Grandpa Munster he didn't really need makeup.. I yelled.." hey Grandpa!" .. he turned to me and said " how you doing" .. I yell back to him.." I'm a big fan of yours Grandpa great to see you!"

    • @mrsbluesky8415
      @mrsbluesky8415 ปีที่แล้ว +121

      Haha I can just picture it in my mind.

    • @CoolClassics
      @CoolClassics  ปีที่แล้ว +144

      That is Great! I would have called him Grandpa too 🤣

    • @BanazirGalpsi1968
      @BanazirGalpsi1968 ปีที่แล้ว +131

      Al lewis used to host movies on TBS as grandpa

    • @book3100
      @book3100 ปีที่แล้ว +53

      That's cool lol

    • @carolharris2357
      @carolharris2357 ปีที่แล้ว +69

      He was in politics and lived forever it seems.

  • @rbspider
    @rbspider 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +26

    It's a shame that Harvard doesn't turn out students like Fred now. Thank you for your service Mr Gwynne.

  • @kennethrschnear6926
    @kennethrschnear6926 ปีที่แล้ว +388

    All I can say is nobody else could have played the beloved Herman Munster character better than Fred. He was exceptional!

    • @hermanmunster3358
      @hermanmunster3358 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

      Why thank you, you're too kind ❤

    • @TayWoode
      @TayWoode 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I think if they did a TV reboot Brad Garret would be good

    • @horaceball5418
      @horaceball5418 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      WHAT ABOUT LEAF GARRETT?

    • @TayWoode
      @TayWoode 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@horaceball5418 not tall enough, I was thinking Brad coz he’s tall, acts goofy and has a deep voice. Or were you trying to make a joke coz they both have the same surname? 🤔

    • @optimus2g
      @optimus2g 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@hermanmunster3358 UNCLE HERMAAAN!!! lol

  • @wireworks616
    @wireworks616 ปีที่แล้ว +267

    I new Fred personally. He's was always a very friendly person. He took life on a daily basis. He was always funny. I miss his friendship.

    • @CoolClassics
      @CoolClassics  ปีที่แล้ว +5

      💜

    • @DBEdwards
      @DBEdwards ปีที่แล้ว +24

      How lucky you. I did catch a glimpse of Fred Gwynne and the Munsters cast when I visited UNIVERSAL STUDIOS in 1965. We visited the set. They were all in the back of a school bus, headed for lunch and they waved to our trailer. It was the greatest thrill for this 10 year old.

    • @gregoryclemen1870
      @gregoryclemen1870 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +13

      FRED was a very multi- talented man, and none of it went to his head. I would not wish on anyone what he went through as a child( not to mention the heartache of loosing his own children). I remember reading his children's books in grade school, and yes ,I too was a big "MUNSTERS" fan when it first aired on "T.V."( I know that his makeup was down right pain full to wear). it is a real shame that he was "TYPE CASTED" after the show ended. his list of movies that he did was great to watch also, he did many "voice overs "on T.V. advertisements, his voice was unmistakable!!!!. I never met the guy, but I do miss him to this day!!!!!.

    • @JonLundgren
      @JonLundgren 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +7

      Knew

    • @besttime58
      @besttime58 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +7

      I had my picture taken with Al Lewis. He was a nice guy.

  • @karencahill4798
    @karencahill4798 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +85

    I was 8 in 1964. I didn’t miss a show. We all loved Herman Munster. His laugh was monumental. He made the show. A wonderful part of my childhood. ❤

    • @johnh1932
      @johnh1932 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      I too was 8 in 1964 and this was one of my favorite shows.

    • @jumpingship3001
      @jumpingship3001 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I just counted with my fingers, I was also 8. Adams family was also a favorite of mine

    • @Privatenospying
      @Privatenospying 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I was 5 and finger counted too😊

  • @benbaker2965
    @benbaker2965 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +16

    Fred Gwynne was underappreciated as an actor. He really was held back by his role as Herman. When given a chance he was so good in so many roles .

    • @jessica_R_9167
      @jessica_R_9167 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Pet cemetery always comes to my mind

  • @RedwoodTheElf
    @RedwoodTheElf ปีที่แล้ว +131

    Fred Gwynne was a national treasure. He left us too soon.

  • @CY3ERUS
    @CY3ERUS ปีที่แล้ว +273

    That smile, That voice and iconic laugh, Rest in peace Fred you were one of a kind.

  • @marksamuelsen2750
    @marksamuelsen2750 ปีที่แล้ว +138

    I’m a 69yo disabled veteran and retired pilot and I remember Car 54 and the Munsters and most of all the other things he was in. You did a great job here and thank you very much.

    • @CoolClassics
      @CoolClassics  ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Thank You Mark! 😁👍

    • @brendagroff8478
      @brendagroff8478 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Thank you for your service Mark.

    • @raydoucette2882
      @raydoucette2882 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Thank you for serving, I'm a Vietnam Era veteran, that served in Korea from 74/75

    • @desirichert9394
      @desirichert9394 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Thank You for your Service, Mr. Samuelsen! I REALLY LOVED The Munsters and Car 54.

    • @59Alaskan
      @59Alaskan ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@raydoucette2882 thank you for your service and I pray your life has been or will be, full of joy 😊

  • @AUTISTICLYCAN
    @AUTISTICLYCAN ปีที่แล้ว +51

    This video made me cry like a baby. I always knew Fred Gwynne was a stand up guy. This video confirmed it. I'm happy that Fred owned himself, dying happy man. What made Fred so lovable as Herman is Herman was a big innocent gentle working man. Frankenstein was supposed to be a BIG scary Monster. Herman was anything but a Frankenstein type. Fred was a big sweetheart in many of his roles and in real life. Fred brought levels of realness, genuine approach-ability and innocence to his roles that could not be faked. When I saw Fred drew the Herman pictures with inspirational sayings is when I lost it! The man was just plain all out lovely!

  • @brian_atc
    @brian_atc 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +35

    This is a truly wonderful story. I had no idea that this guy who I loved watching as a child and later on was such a beautiful person. We need more people like him in this world.

  • @toob1979
    @toob1979 ปีที่แล้ว +191

    Wow. I didn't know Fred Gwynne's personal life had such tragedy. To endure so much, but to keep a sunny attitude toward life, is amazing. I'm glad that he, much like Leonard Nimoy, learned to stop viewing his iconic role as a hindrance but as the blessing it surely was.
    I knew he did _The Munsters,_ but I'm much more familiar with his roles in _My Cousin Vinny_ and _Pet Semetary._ His deep baritone voice saying, "Sometimes, dead is better," is haunting, even today. I'm intrigued he wrote children's books. I should look them up and read a few.
    I hope his kids are doing well, wherever they are.

    • @planescaped
      @planescaped ปีที่แล้ว +12

      The sometimes dead is better line from him is literally iconic.

    • @sandrahunter5904
      @sandrahunter5904 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      "Car 54, where are you."

    • @patriciaroberts308
      @patriciaroberts308 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      ​@@sandrahunter5904I'm familiar with Fred from before he was on the Phil Silvers Show TV. 💖

  • @jeffryblackmon4846
    @jeffryblackmon4846 ปีที่แล้ว +58

    His life was anything but easy, yet he carried on. And he was a Navy WWII veteran as well. A great man, no doubt.

  • @toddwilson7895
    @toddwilson7895 ปีที่แล้ว +42

    Nobody else could have reached us with a comical Frankenstein character like Fred Gwynne. Salute to an incredibly talented and interesting man with a great heart. Rest in Power and Peace, Fred

    • @lancerevell5979
      @lancerevell5979 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Both Fred Gwynne and Peter Boyle did superb comedic takes on the Frankenstein character.

    • @MsFutureguy
      @MsFutureguy 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Great presentation. I had no idea Fred was so talented. This inspires me to give the world my talents. I've been hiding too long

  • @toniquinn9270
    @toniquinn9270 ปีที่แล้ว +27

    My youngest brother, Mike and I were such fans of the Munsters. Fred Gwynne is truly missed, and I loved the other projects that he did as well.

  • @johncryan8701
    @johncryan8701 ปีที่แล้ว +39

    I attended a Rangers hockey game in Madison Square Garden as a teen, when I heard this unmistakable baritone voice behind me criticizing the refereeing. It was Fred Gwynn, and for the rest of the game he cheerfully signed programs for fans who'd shyly come up to him in twos and threes.
    I still remember chills on hearing Herman Munster yelling at the ref to wear glasses.

    • @sonnyeast3862
      @sonnyeast3862 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Epic story! Ha!

    • @jpharaoh4893
      @jpharaoh4893 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Woah 🤯

    • @cowboykelly6590
      @cowboykelly6590 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      BAHAHAHA... 🤣 love your experience, thank you for sharing that cool memory. 🤠🖖

    • @johnnyintrieri
      @johnnyintrieri ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Great Story!!!!! 👍🏻🇺🇸

  • @oldsoldier181
    @oldsoldier181 ปีที่แล้ว +56

    Hollywood doesnt make celebrities like him anymore. What an amazing story. I didnt know there was so much tragedy in his life!!!

    • @texasgina
      @texasgina ปีที่แล้ว

      My favorite performance of Harvey’s besides the Carol Burnett show was “High Anxiety” by and with Mel Brooks. I could watch that movie 1 million times and still laugh every time

    • @asswaterstudios
      @asswaterstudios ปีที่แล้ว

      Hollywood has plenty of mind controlled slaves what do you mean? When did it change?

  • @tammyhollandsworth6783
    @tammyhollandsworth6783 ปีที่แล้ว +53

    What a wonderful story. Never knew his life history. Thank you for sharing with us!

  • @ameliab7245
    @ameliab7245 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    I'm in shock that he was only 66 when he passed. I had always imagined he lived to a ripe old age. So glad he was able to do children's books and brighten up their lives with his stories. I never saw any of his books when I was a kid. Now I'll have to search for them to read.

  • @ThunderPaladin
    @ThunderPaladin ปีที่แล้ว +18

    That poor man. God bless him for bringing so much joy to so many people.
    As a haunt and creature actor, I have so much admiration and respect for him, and Herman Munster, a monster with a heart of purest gold.

  • @ffkarle
    @ffkarle ปีที่แล้ว +68

    I worked with Fred's cousin, Gary Gwynne. He was our city manager at The City of Grand Prairie Texas for 4 years. Gary could pass as Fred's twin including his height, etc. He was a good person to work for. It was intimidating to sit on the other side of his desk from him, but he was a good person.

    • @CoolClassics
      @CoolClassics  ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Very Cool!

    • @lloydkline1518
      @lloydkline1518 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Wow , lucky ❤️ the monster tv show got it on dvd

    • @texasgina
      @texasgina ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Very cool

    • @kaymuldoon3575
      @kaymuldoon3575 ปีที่แล้ว

      That’s so cool! I live right next door to Grand Prairie (Arlington). I had no idea he had family who lived in Grand Prairie.
      Another interesting bit of history I learned from this channel: Ted Cassidy (another tall man) who played Lurch in the Addams Family, lived in Dallas and did a lot of voice work for local advertising.

  • @tobascoheat6582
    @tobascoheat6582 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    I love Herman Munster! His laugh was iconic!!! 😂😂😂❤❤❤
    What a sweet and talented guy! I'm so sorry for ALL the heartache he endured during his lifetime. It seems so wrong ... 😢😢😢

  • @aramboodakian9554
    @aramboodakian9554 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    Wow Fred was an incredibly talented, intelligent, and warm hearted man. I have so much love and respect for him!

  • @WhispersFromTheDark
    @WhispersFromTheDark ปีที่แล้ว +158

    This video about Fred is by far the best I've seen on TH-cam. The only thing I may add is that he was buried without a headstone. I'm guessing that was his decision, to not be identified after death. Bless his heart, I can't imagine the heartache he went thru losing siblings, his Father at a young age and then the tragedies of his own children. I'm hoping he found the peace in death that he didn't find in life. Rest in peace Mr. Gwynne, and thank you for the many years of entertainment you gave us. I plan to buy his books for my granddaughter.

    • @user-gy3vp3tm3s
      @user-gy3vp3tm3s 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +7

      I remember reading somewhere that he didn't want people putting Frankenstein monster dolls on his grave during Halloween, lol... Who knows?? 😄🤷‍♀

    • @marshamariner7897
      @marshamariner7897 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Love him at the end of ....secret of my sucess...the look he gave Michael in the end meeting scene....OMFG I'M SCREWED..🤣🤣😂😂😽😽✌️

  • @DarkCloudNC
    @DarkCloudNC ปีที่แล้ว +181

    I remember hearing about his life years ago. He’s definitely a legend! I loved his role as the Judge in “My Cousin Vinny” .

    • @laithamekir5778
      @laithamekir5778 ปีที่แล้ว +26

      Man he came down hard on those two Yutes

    • @bostonrailfan2427
      @bostonrailfan2427 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      @@laithamekir5778 what is a yute? 🤣

    • @bostonrailfan2427
      @bostonrailfan2427 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      he nailed the role and played it better than others would have, it might jot have been a big one but he’s key to the movie in many ways

    • @MsSavagechef
      @MsSavagechef ปีที่แล้ว +6

      I loved his deadpan style in that.

    • @croach69
      @croach69 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Win some, lose some!

  • @abbynormal2111
    @abbynormal2111 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +7

    That show taught me to look beyond appearances. Herman and Lily were the kindest, most unconditionally loving couple on TV. Thank you for this!

    • @CoolClassics
      @CoolClassics  8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Well said! 💜

  • @myleshollywood81
    @myleshollywood81 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +23

    This was a great biography of Fred Gwynne. I always wondered what he was like and this was very respectful. It's sad that he had so many tragedies with his children.

  • @danspencer9499
    @danspencer9499 ปีที่แล้ว +73

    What a man! Life handed him lots of challenges and he rose to all the occasions. Amazing lifetime!

  • @richardsteele6776
    @richardsteele6776 ปีที่แล้ว +30

    Rest In Peace Fred. Thank you for the quality entertainment.

  • @MaxStax1
    @MaxStax1 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +9

    I think Fred's idea to channel his Mother into his character of Herman Munster was brilliant. I had never heard that before, but it totally worked, you just don't expect that character to act as he did. He was so likable and funny as Herman.

  • @joshroolf1966
    @joshroolf1966 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

    I knew nothing of his life!!???😢
    It certainly explains his immense gravitas, which made his understated humor so effective; and his sentimental moments so touching.
    He was a small part of my childhood and emerging character and I was fascinated by him in general, thank you for this very well edited and respectful presentation.🌤💚🐾🐾🐾
    ...without a headstone.😔💙🖤
    Rest In Peace fellow human.

  • @RarebitFiends
    @RarebitFiends ปีที่แล้ว +160

    Wow, I grew up watching reruns of The Munsters and absolutely loved Herman, I had no idea Fred was also an accomplished artist and writer! He certainly did make Herman loveable. It's astounding how much tragedy he had to face from a young age, almost in direct contrast to how much joy his work has brought to others.

    • @jessyesak
      @jessyesak ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I also grew up watching reruns and loved every episode and also loved Herman. I didn't know he was a writer and an artist and for him to go on set every day and take that long to get his make up on. H really did bring a lot of joy to others.

    • @kathyweisgarber6327
      @kathyweisgarber6327 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      THE LITTLEST ANGLE HIS NAME CARACTER WAS PATIENCE LITE 😉JOHNY WHITETHGER KATHY82WEISGARBER

    • @kathyweisgarber6327
      @kathyweisgarber6327 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      FRED WAS IN THE MOVIE

    • @damnfoxcat683
      @damnfoxcat683 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Sometimes people with the saddest story's laugh the loudest.

  • @mage1439
    @mage1439 ปีที่แล้ว +50

    What a sweet, lovable man. The ending of the video has my watery-eyed, how he got to realize people liked him for him. Every time I've ever seen him in anything, I've always been excited to see him.

  • @margarethprinzler6062
    @margarethprinzler6062 ปีที่แล้ว +35

    Thank you so much for telling us about Fred's life. What a wonderful person he was. So sad he's already gone.

  • @yourmaninlondoncollecting5749
    @yourmaninlondoncollecting5749 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    What a great human being he was. So much more to him than just... Herman Munter 🙂👍

  • @swh62
    @swh62 ปีที่แล้ว +22

    It's a wonder and a shame to only know Fred from the Munsters. Turns out he's a real renaissance man. Really nicely told; enjoyed it a lot. Thanks.

  • @Facade953
    @Facade953 ปีที่แล้ว +56

    A great performer and a fantastic human being! R.I.P. Fred, your kind heart and your acting legacy will not be forgotten.

  • @MelloGee33
    @MelloGee33 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

    That was a great little biography on Fred Gwynne. I never knew any of those little details in his life. What an amazing journey for him.

  • @virginiavarble7818
    @virginiavarble7818 ปีที่แล้ว +53

    I really loved this, thank you! Fred was a great man , he will forever be missed!

  • @mcbridemahan9136
    @mcbridemahan9136 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Brilliant man, actor & writer

  • @janetownley
    @janetownley ปีที่แล้ว +5

    He lived in Bedford, NY in the late 60s when I was a kid and lived in the next town. He opened the door and listened politely when my sister and I went Christmas caroling at his house.

    • @CoolClassics
      @CoolClassics  ปีที่แล้ว

      Now that is a Great Memory to have! 😁💜

  • @hiroshinagoya2469
    @hiroshinagoya2469 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Wow!!! awesome story; he lived his life to the fullest and always had the courage to keep moving forward after so many tragedies.

  • @markstein1916
    @markstein1916 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    He brought us so much joy, happiness and laughter. Life was better because of him. I love him.... he played the part of Herman like nobody else could. RIP Fred.

  • @mikekennedy4572
    @mikekennedy4572 ปีที่แล้ว +183

    I always liked Fred in his roles, but this video renews and expands my appreciation of him as a performer, an artist, an author and a family man. Rest in peace, sir.

    • @michaelvoorhees5978
      @michaelvoorhees5978 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      He's not reading this....

    • @nostalkingzone
      @nostalkingzone ปีที่แล้ว +12

      @@michaelvoorhees5978 Don't be a jerk.

    • @cowboykelly6590
      @cowboykelly6590 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@michaelvoorhees5978 RRRIIGHT... you're RIDICULOUS and Childish .

    • @Jack-wi5qr
      @Jack-wi5qr ปีที่แล้ว

      He was great in a movie with Bob Crane from the Hogan’s Heroes. Movie was called Arsenic and Lace. Can’t seem to find it, but remember seeing it in the early’70s .

    • @DonRedmond-qb3we
      @DonRedmond-qb3we 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I was going to comment on him but your expressive, genuinely accurate words spoke volumes about this incredible man! Thank you!!!

  • @angelajoleefloria2564
    @angelajoleefloria2564 ปีที่แล้ว +68

    I never knew much about Fred Gwynne's life other then his roles in The Muensters, Car 54 and My Cousin Vinny. I loved his acting skills and his ability to keep me entertained as a young child and through adulthood.
    It's fascinating to learn about his years growing up, his education, his jobs, family and so on..
    So sad to know that he died from pancreatic cancer and too young. His legacy will always live on!!!

  • @kevinlucas8437
    @kevinlucas8437 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Fred was an amazing talent, grew up watching him, sad to know all his troubles. But what a legacy he left !!!!

  • @melodiejohnston9528
    @melodiejohnston9528 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    This was excellent. Fred Gwynne has been one of my absolute favourites from the first time I saw him (way back). Great in every role and especially brilliant in My Cousin Vinny. Thanks for the memories.

  • @KpxUrz5745
    @KpxUrz5745 ปีที่แล้ว +136

    Really great tribute to the great Fred Gwynne! One of my big regrets is that I could have arranged to enjoy getting to know Fred, since I worked with and was quite friendly with his wife at a design firm in NYC on 18th St where she worked as an editor. She was known to us by her "alias" Debbie Loveless, but I now see her surname is Flater. One Monday, Debbie said she worked over the weekend and Fred visited and sat at my drafting desk to draw frogs! I now learn more about his past, see that he had a good background in art, illustrated childrens books, so it is no wonder that one of his interests was drawing frogs, etc. I would love to have worked that weekend and spent a few hours around this great actor. Debbie was a very fun person to talk to at work. She would tell fun stories about summers in New England where actors would congregate for summer stock. They lived down in a nice historical building in the West Village. The more I learn about Fred, the more I admire and respect him. Also I had a friend who worked in the then famous art supply store Pearl Paint downtown, and he said that Fred came in to buy special art papers for his drawings. Fred gave us all so many wonderful memories of his remarkable acting roles!

    • @CoolClassics
      @CoolClassics  ปีที่แล้ว +18

      Wow! What a post you just made!
      Every video that I make, somebody that had close contact to the person leaves an amazing comment. Today, you are that person. Thank You! 😁

    • @milliesecond102
      @milliesecond102 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      WOW!!!! What a small world! And having grown up in Burbank CA, I experience that quite a bit. Thanks for sharing your story!😊

  • @glenmo1
    @glenmo1 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I was fortunate enough to see Fred gwynn in the production of Shakespeare's 12th night.. performed here in Connecticut at the Shakespeare theater when I was in elementary school..RIP Fred ..

    • @CoolClassics
      @CoolClassics  ปีที่แล้ว

      Now that is very Fortunate!
      Big shoutout to whoever took you :)

  • @Timzart7
    @Timzart7 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I was born in the early 50s and used to watch Car 54, first airing in 1961. Except for the tragic deaths of his first two children, he had a great life, and was such a multi-talented person. This video bio was fascinating from beginning to end.

  • @gwarren6386
    @gwarren6386 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Thank you. It was one of the best I’ve ever seen. What a great man. Wish I’d met him. So deep. It broke my heart to hear about his losses.

  • @jamyla
    @jamyla ปีที่แล้ว +182

    To have experienced so much tragedy
    in his life and to be able to create such
    a kind and gracious character as Herman
    Munster is remarkable.
    The daily ordeal of the make-up and
    costume must have required incredible
    focus and self-control.
    Many of his indoor scenes relied on
    "Bull in a china shop" comedy,
    however the show where he "tried out"
    for the Dodgers at Dodger Stadium
    (with Leo Durocher) really displayed
    his grace and athleticism while
    basically wearing a suit of armor.
    Thanks for sharing details of the life
    of this very talented and interesting man.

    • @SPFLDAngler
      @SPFLDAngler ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Behind most comedians is a deep dark depression. Those who try the hardest to make others happy are usually the ones who are the most unhappy. Just look at Robin Williams and Chris Farley for examples. Comedy is nothing but tragedy with a dash of humor thrown in.

    • @headhunter1945
      @headhunter1945 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      People who know hardship understand the need for empathy. This is what is wrong with the upper class. They need more hardship.

    • @jenynz5334
      @jenynz5334 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yes. He was my favorite TV dad 🙂.

  • @markramsey4640
    @markramsey4640 ปีที่แล้ว +21

    Fred was absolutely wonderful as Herman Munster. What a talented man he was.

  • @pisces363
    @pisces363 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    I’m a huge fan of “The Munsters”. I bought the complete seasons on DVD and binged watched every episode back-to-back. The funniest thing I’ve ever seen in my life is when Herman thought Lily had a baby that turned out to be a toy. I know I must have laughed, kicking and screaming, with tears in my eyes for about 45 minutes straight. There was a brief clip at the beginning of this video.

  • @andyt5559
    @andyt5559 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    A tale of talent and tragedy! THANK YOU! And to you Fred whereever you are, RESPECT!

  • @claudiobrito3421
    @claudiobrito3421 ปีที่แล้ว +31

    A gentle giant, a giant heart, a heartly actor and father, he was amazing in ''pet sematary''

    • @CleverGirlAAH
      @CleverGirlAAH ปีที่แล้ว +1

      He had such a, pardon the pun, grave delivery.

  • @raywood8187
    @raywood8187 ปีที่แล้ว +61

    I was 5 when the Munsters debuted. I loved this show and especially Herman! Thank you for showing us that Fred Gwynne was so much more the just a Munster. He deserves to be better known for his life.
    It's a shame they were cancelled so soon. One thing I've never understood, why networks would sabotage another series by running a show in the same time slot? We had no way to record a show so it was one or the other and we were the ones who lost out because we couldn't watch both shows. I know it never created any network goodwill or loyalty in me when they used these tactics.
    And there were only 3 channels to watch anyway, so there wasn't really that much selection and there should have been plenty of room for all 3 network schedules. It made so much more sense to me to put a show against something people aren't watching and they could have gotten so many more viewers that way.

    • @nerblebun
      @nerblebun ปีที่แล้ว +6

      @Ray Wood: Speaking of time slots.... I'll never forget when John Larroquette, who played lawyer Dan Fielding on the television series Night Court, won his first Emmy. The first thing he said when accepting the award for Best Supporting Actor in a comedy series, "I'd like to thank whoever moved Michael J. Fox to a different time slot".

  • @Wickedsalem7
    @Wickedsalem7 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    I loved the Munsters! He seemed like a really good guy. My mom was born the year TV got weird and I grew up with all those shows. Fred had a pretty amazing life, thanks for telling us about it! RIP Fred

  • @DarkMetaOFFICIAL
    @DarkMetaOFFICIAL ปีที่แล้ว +14

    Wow, I'm teared up in feels. This was an amazing video. I grew up watching all these old shows reruns. Every single ep. Munsters was always one of my favs. this really hits home. He did so much for us, think about that, never having met us, to bring so many years of joy. rip big guy. will always love that man. he truly was a chad and genuinely wholesome dude, which always came through while watching him in the show. one of the rare things that brought me happiness in life was his acting and the characters in this show. then always on late at night again, on reruns, years later, and laughing so hard, so many hours having that nostalgia was the best.

  • @kidkhryslerkid1193
    @kidkhryslerkid1193 ปีที่แล้ว +28

    Thanks for taking the time to put this biography together. Very well done.
    I knew Mr Gwynne for a short period of time when he lived at his last residence. He was just a normal guy. Not in height of course. Occasionally you would see him at the local store. Small town near by where everyone knew everyone. He was just another neighbor and a good one to have. RIP Fred. Thanks for the memories.

  • @Thomas-yr9ln
    @Thomas-yr9ln ปีที่แล้ว +13

    Seeing him in old reruns he was a very likable person.

  • @undercrackers56
    @undercrackers56 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    What a wonderful tribute. Once I started to watch I could not stop. I agree that he was pivotal in My Cousin Vinnie.

  • @michaelmann8800
    @michaelmann8800 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +20

    I *REALLY* enjoyed this video! I didn't know anything about Fred Gwynne's background, and it shows how multi-faceted he was and how that arose from the love of his mother and the loss of his father at an early age. The descriptions of the loss of his two children was absolutely heartbreaking. It seems he ended up living his life pretty much on HIS terms, was made aware of the lasting impact he had on others, and was surrounded by love when he died. A person simply could not ask for more.

    • @user-gy3vp3tm3s
      @user-gy3vp3tm3s 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I'm glad that at least his mother lived long enough to witness his major success and popularity in TV comedy-first with _Car 54, Where Are You?_ and (especially) _The Munsters_ . She must have been so proud! 🏚🎥📺💰 🏆🎉🥂 😎👍

  • @ghost-ez2zn
    @ghost-ez2zn ปีที่แล้ว +12

    Huge childhood memory of this show. The one time my brother and I got along was when we watched The Munsters. Fred was truly a gentleman.

  • @MrMustard2U
    @MrMustard2U ปีที่แล้ว +17

    Who doesn't Love Fred Gwynne,..RIP to the whole cast of the Munsters, God Bless them all, a time on television where actors really knew their craft & had to have major talent...to get their roles...

    • @adamn7516
      @adamn7516 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Well Butch is still alive.

    • @terencejay8845
      @terencejay8845 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      We had Car 54 in the UK. As we only had two TV channels back then it was a must-see for kids in the early evening. When The Munsters aired, my first thought was 'That's the chap from Car 54!' Fond memories of both, in glorious black & white.

    • @tomlemery8490
      @tomlemery8490 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@adamn7516 I think Pat Priest is too.

  • @BamaFanUSMC
    @BamaFanUSMC 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

    You have to admire his strength to not give up or quit on life, especially after so much tragedy he experienced. He was a great actor and "My Cousin Vinny" was hilarious with him and Joe Pesci going at it 😂
    Ps. well done on this video my friend

    • @CoolClassics
      @CoolClassics  8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      😁👍

    • @rbspider
      @rbspider 8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      One of my favorite comedy movies. Until I read your comment I forgot about him play the judge.

  • @davidtodora6173
    @davidtodora6173 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Thank you so much. The Munsters show meant so much to me when I was a small child. I could never believe it got canceled only two years that’s ridiculous. Thank you again for this outstanding piece.

  • @bewiseasowls
    @bewiseasowls ปีที่แล้ว +70

    Wow! Not only a biography but a tribute to one of our most beloved television persons to be blest with! What a life he had ! After 55 years I learned so much more about him . He really is quite a human being and this documentary sure measures up to tell about him! You did a great job. It is well thought out and develops perfectly like the opening of a fan!

    • @CoolClassics
      @CoolClassics  ปีที่แล้ว +1

      👍😁

    • @kathyweisgarber6327
      @kathyweisgarber6327 ปีที่แล้ว

      EVERYBODY WATCH THE LITTLEST ANGLE IT WILL BE YOUR FAVORITE CHRISTAMAS MOVIE PLUS CAB CALLOWAY DEBBIE RENALDS AND YOU'LL LOVE FRED AND JOHNNYS SINGING SOOOOOOO VERRRRRRRY SPECIAL TONY RANDLE ❤😄😀💙♥😊❤😄IN THIS ALSO!!!!!!!KATHY82WEISGARBER ENJOY ITS PRECIOUS!!!!!!!

    • @borough110
      @borough110 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Couldn't have said it any better myself. Great comment for a great video of a truly great actor.

    • @jackielong9927
      @jackielong9927 ปีที่แล้ว

      I agree ❤

  • @InfamousGUNN
    @InfamousGUNN ปีที่แล้ว +15

    I don’t know anybody who did not love this man !
    He was kind generous very very talented and he was the real deal😎

    • @michaelvoorhees5978
      @michaelvoorhees5978 ปีที่แล้ว

      I don't love him...I don't know him. Neither do you. Stop being dramatic.

    • @InfamousGUNN
      @InfamousGUNN ปีที่แล้ว

      @@michaelvoorhees5978
      I suggest you get out of your mom's basement and get a life!

  • @erfelgamazig
    @erfelgamazig 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    What a great tribute to Fred!!! Anyone who truly "hits the nail on the head" at character development will be followed by the success of that role. This is not something to be despised, like some Hollywood actors will do. Could you imagine anyone else in the world playing "Granny" but Irene Ryan? Thanks for this loving tribute to Fred Gwyn.

  • @DA-bp8lf
    @DA-bp8lf 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    Thanks for sharing his story. I love this guy. I only wish he wasn’t taken from us when he was. I guarantee you we would’ve had a lot more movies of his, that we would still be enjoying. ❤

    • @CoolClassics
      @CoolClassics  8 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I totally agree

  • @keepitforreally4501
    @keepitforreally4501 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Nobody could ever replace the Munsters
    I do enjoy the show so much and it’s timeless

  • @HD-rs6fi
    @HD-rs6fi ปีที่แล้ว +10

    What a class act in every way ...... RIP Fred Gwynne

  • @nonyabiznis4399
    @nonyabiznis4399 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    ! It's nice to see a life story, especially one that gave me joy. I grew up watching him, now I know him in a way. His determination and love for his family was unprecedented.

  • @floydpattersonii4996
    @floydpattersonii4996 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    He played the Herman Munster role masterfully. A big huge monster with the heart of a teddy bear

  • @lonmorgan5260
    @lonmorgan5260 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Fred Gwynne was awesome. I grew up watching him in his early years

  • @jennaolbermann7663
    @jennaolbermann7663 ปีที่แล้ว +95

    I read Fred Gwynn’s book about dogs who looked like their owners to my son when he was little. Great book. Thank you for such an in depth look into Fred’s life, I never knew his story before, well done presentation!

  • @janelliebellies9656
    @janelliebellies9656 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    I don’t often comment on videos but I want to thank you for such a well curated video essay on Fred! The Munsters got me through some dark times thanks to its whimsy and especially thanks to Fred. We can really feel the pleasure you get from some of this research! Thank you!

  • @cliffmay4409
    @cliffmay4409 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I didn't find the Munsters until the mid 80s and was instantly hooked then I started looking for other shows and movies he was in..such a talented entertainer

  • @LOVE2Flute
    @LOVE2Flute ปีที่แล้ว +15

    I loved Fred in everything he did. The only television I didn’t see was “Car 54 Where are you?”
    Fred was the most endearing individual, no matter what part he was playing. I loved him in “My cousin Vinny” and when “The Munsters” went off the air I was heartbroken. Thank you for this creation. So beautiful.

  • @Raven-kv9mb
    @Raven-kv9mb ปีที่แล้ว +24

    I never realized Fred Gwyn was such an amazing man!! Thank-you for the information on this amazing man!!

  • @neovxr
    @neovxr ปีที่แล้ว +6

    very good compilation.
    we underestimate good artistry so much. fred was a polymath in arts. he understood how to entertain people in a good, funny, and harmless way. he added some very positive messages.
    herman munster looked so easy, but it took this guy as an actor to make him real.

  • @EYECPEOPLE
    @EYECPEOPLE ปีที่แล้ว +6

    What a heck of a story and what a loving guy Fred was.. Thank you for sharing this its warmed my heart...

  • @simon5005
    @simon5005 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    As I was ten years old when The Munsters was on TV and loved the show, I cannot thank you enough for this video. I will never see Mr. Gwynne the same again. Absolutely wonderful!!!

  • @memecats5698
    @memecats5698 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    He was one of my all-time favorite actors, it was just something about him that came across real. I remember hearing when he passed away and it was a sad day for comedy.

  • @KRAFTWERK2K6
    @KRAFTWERK2K6 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Wow. This was an absolute treat to watch. I swear, this really is the most detailed, warm, respectful & loving tribute to Fred Gwynne i have ever seen so far. It really shows that this one comes from a true fan and admirer of him and his work. Thank you so much for having made this lovely feature and not cutting it down to a 10 minute bite-sized video but giving it the proper time. It really shows what a ride a human life can be, full of ups and downs, achievements and losses. And it doesn't matter how long a life can be, when you can make a positive difference in the lifes of others so people always remember you, even nearly 30 years after your death.

  • @ViralCog
    @ViralCog 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    I’m happy that he got to live a happy life with his wife and kids and paint and write children’s books, I wish to have that sweetness of life someday.

  • @borisbash
    @borisbash ปีที่แล้ว +26

    The Munsters was world wide. Fred was loved internationally. He was part of our childhood in Australia along with Max Smart Ed Clampart and so many other characters. Thanks for showing this video. It was informative and a lovely tribute.

    • @grantp4022
      @grantp4022 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Interesting comment, and I feel the same as you from Canada. I think the
      youth today, will never have the classic TV programs we did, like Bewitched,
      I Dream Of Jeanie, and All In The Family. Was a great time to be a kid, but
      I guess they can watch reruns, and enjoy these great productions.

    • @jeffryblackmon4846
      @jeffryblackmon4846 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@grantp4022 It would be beneficial to them to laugh at true comedy and not the ridiculous not-cartoons featured on the tube nowadays. Krazy Kat, Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck and the Road Runner are a few they should have the opportunity to see.

    • @jkoncz
      @jkoncz ปีที่แล้ว

      Jed you mean?

    • @borisbash
      @borisbash ปีที่แล้ว

      @@jkoncz typo error, sorry

    • @thechurchofsupersampling
      @thechurchofsupersampling ปีที่แล้ว

      Always loved get smart if only the new film was a bit better

  • @DJarry394
    @DJarry394 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Wow, I didn’t know Gwynne grew up so artsy! Cool fact! His art is amazing, and he was truely a Renaissance man, accomplished in many art forms

    • @djdissi
      @djdissi ปีที่แล้ว +1

      My thoughts exactly. Well said.

  • @dwlinge
    @dwlinge ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Exceptional biography. I learned so much about this amazingly talented man. Well done!

  • @adalouellis5706
    @adalouellis5706 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    How heartbreaking......so very sad. No wonder he was such a gental soul. Thank you for posting this.

  • @roboto959
    @roboto959 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    You are Great NARRATOR . THANKS
    For Keeping Alive THE COOL ... CLASSICS 👍🏻👍🏻

  • @ernestsloan5071
    @ernestsloan5071 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    Rest In Peace, You entertained me for years. You were a part of my childhood. Thank you Fred

  • @tammyhollandsworth6783
    @tammyhollandsworth6783 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Car 54 was one of my favorite old shows. It was heartbreaking about his two children. You can tell he loved his family!

  • @intheirownwords6079
    @intheirownwords6079 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I never saw the Munsters, but Im glad I did recently. Fred Gwynne did so much for the character, I never realized how good the cast was. His guffaw laugh is just killer. I love this show, can't get enough. I also think Lily is one fine yummy mummy.

  • @cassandralyris4918
    @cassandralyris4918 ปีที่แล้ว +235

    My God, I never knew about what had happened to his sons! That, that is so horrible! To come through that and still find comfort in comedy and to be so amazing as Herman Munster...my respect for his craft just went through the roof!
    This might be a little TMI, but I grew up without a dad, so I clung to TV characters growing up. I always wished Herman was my dad, and Gomez would be my husband. 😅
    His role in Pet Semetary suddenly makes a lot more sense...that had always surprised me, that he would be in a horror movie but now it makes a lot of sense. I can see why he'd be drawn to be in a movie about a man trying to bring his dead son back to life...
    Excellent research for this one. I legit teared up. 😥

    • @CoolClassics
      @CoolClassics  ปีที่แล้ว +33

      So far you are the only one to mention the connection in Pet Semetary with his personal life. Good catch! BTW you picked a good role model for a Father figure and if Gomez was your husband, then that would make you Morticia. Considering that your name is Cassandra, which is the real name of the actress that plays Elvira, I think this is all fitting nicely together 😉

    • @bemoguy
      @bemoguy ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Cassandra, I can so relate to looking at character actors as father figures! My dad was a pastor, who was a workaholic, who didn't spend time with my brother and I, or my mom like he should have, although he changed later. Mine were Sébastien Cabot, and Brian Keith, both, from "A Family Affair", as well as Bill Bixby, in his single dad role in "The Courtship of Eddie's Father". Those are just 3 that come to mind from my childhood.

    • @jenynz5334
      @jenynz5334 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      My favorite confort character on tv was Jack Tripper fromThree's Company. He reminded me of my older brother, who was my favorite family member. Later it was Marshall Erickson from How I Met Your Mother.

    • @quadsman11
      @quadsman11 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@CoolClassics
      OMG !
      I have been leading you down a totally incorrect path !
      We have been talking about, and encouraging you to do a profile on
      Clint Walker.
      And I have been giving you information on
      James Arness !
      I had this uncomfortable feeling that something didn't feel right as I was giving you the last group of information on
      Clint Walker ,!
      But, now that I am talking about it,
      James Arness would be a great profile to consider doing !
      I apologize for leading you down a wrong path !

    • @CoolClassics
      @CoolClassics  ปีที่แล้ว +6

      quadsman, I seen your posts and I screenshot them, so that I could keep track of the videos you mentioned. I will delete those references. lol I would like to still make a Clint Walker video sometime. But these things take me a long time. Right now I better get a few more bios up of people that nobody really makes them on. A few had short careers, so maybe I can get a couple more out soon, then start on some more epic ones. Some people have such a prolific career, that the task is too daunting. 😉

  • @wallacelang1374
    @wallacelang1374 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I like Fred Gwynne and I felt very sad when he died from pancreatic cancer. My favorite Fred Gwynne roles were the tall Irish cop on "Car 54, Where Are You?", Herman Munster on "The Munsters" & the Judge in "My Cousin Vinny". When I watched the bonus materials on the DVD box set of "The Munsters" TV series I decided to see if his books were still in print.

  • @andrewpatterson8576
    @andrewpatterson8576 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    A testament to what an amazing actor he was, “My cousin Vinny” is one of my favorite movies ever and I never put two and two together. Also your videos are amazing, top to bottom one of the best I’ve watched.