A FRIENDSHIP BUILT ON COMEDY
Some comedy partnerships work because two performers have completely different personalities.
Don Rickles and Regis Philbin were a perfect example.
Rickles was famous for his fast, fearless insult comedy, while Regis became known for his energetic personality, conversational style, and ability to play along with almost anyone.
Their friendship lasted for decades, and the two eventually appeared together in performances and special events.
Atlantic City became one of the places where their professional relationship could turn into a live comedy experience.
REGIS PHILBIN LOVED DON RICKLES
Regis was not simply another celebrity who happened to appear alongside Rickles.
He was a genuine admirer and longtime friend.
In a 1998 report about Rickles performing in Atlantic City, the Los Angeles Times noted that Regis Philbin had followed Rickles with a camera crew and later used the footage on “Live! With Regis & Kathie Lee.”
That story gives some insight into how much Regis enjoyed Rickles' comedy.
He understood that Rickles could turn an ordinary interaction into an unpredictable comedy routine.
THE ATLANTIC CITY CONNECTION
Atlantic City was an...
