Dick Clair facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Dick Clair
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| Born |
Richard Jones
November 12, 1931 San Francisco, California, U.S.
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| Died | December 12, 1988 (aged 57) Los Angeles, California, U.S.
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| Resting place | Cryopreserved at Alcor Life Extension Foundation |
| Years active | 1972–1987 |
| Awards | Emmy Award for Best Writing in Variety or Music for The Carol Burnett Show (1974, 1975, 1978) |
Dick Clair (born Richard Jones; November 12, 1931 – December 12, 1988) was a talented American television producer, actor, and writer. He was well-known for his work on popular TV shows like It's a Living, The Facts of Life, and Mama's Family. He helped create many funny and memorable moments for television audiences.
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Early Life of Dick Clair
Dick Clair was born Richard Jones in San Francisco, California. He grew up in this famous city. He served in the military for two years, from 1955 to 1957. He lived a private life and never married or had children.
Dick Clair's Television Career
In the early 1970s, Dick Clair became famous for his comedy acts. He performed with his writing partner, Jenna McMahon. They appeared on big shows like The Ed Sullivan Show and The Dean Martin Show.
Writing for Popular TV Shows
Clair was a skilled screenwriter for many well-loved TV series. He wrote episodes for The Mary Tyler Moore Show and The Bob Newhart Show. His writing was so good that he won Emmy Awards. These awards were for his work on the comedy-variety program The Carol Burnett Show. He won Emmys in 1974, 1975, and 1978.
Producing Hit Sitcoms
Working with Jenna McMahon, Dick Clair also produced several successful television sitcoms. These shows became very popular with viewers. They included It's a Living, The Facts of Life, and Mama's Family. These shows are still remembered today for their humor and characters.
Dick Clair and Cryonics
Dick Clair was interested in cryonics from an early age. Cryonics is the idea of preserving a body at very low temperatures after death. The hope is that future medical science might be able to bring the person back to life.
Supporting Cryonics Research
In the 1960s, Clair was an active member of the Cryonics Society of California. He believed strongly in its potential. In 1982, he gave $20,000 to a cryonics organization called Trans Time. This money helped a couple remain cryopreserved in liquid nitrogen.
Legal Rights for Cryopreservation
In 1986, Dick Clair faced a serious illness. When he was in the hospital in 1988, he wanted to be cryopreserved. However, the hospital and the State of California did not agree with his wishes at first. This led to a court case known as Roe v. Mitchell. Dick Clair was called "John Roe" in the case. The court battle was successful. It established a legal right for people to choose cryopreservation in California.
Death and Legacy
Dick Clair passed away on December 12, 1988. He was 57 years old. He died due to complications from a serious illness. Following his wishes, he was cryopreserved at the Alcor Life Extension Foundation. Dick Clair is remembered for his significant contributions to television comedy and his pioneering efforts in the field of cryonics.
