Don Rickles turned the insult into an art form, and for over five decades, he made America laugh — not despite the barbs, but because of them. Behind the onstage “Merchant of Venom” label was a Navy veteran, a devoted husband of 52 years, and a man whose closest friends included Clint Eastwood and Frank Sinatra.

Born: May 8, 1926 · Died: April 6, 2017 (age 90) · Net Worth at Death: $30 million · Years Active: 1958–2017 · Famous Role: Mr. Potato Head in Toy Story · Military Service: U.S. Navy, WWII

Full NameDonald Jay Rickles
BornMay 8, 1926, Queens, New York, U.S.
DiedApril 6, 2017, Beverly Hills, California, U.S.
OccupationStand-up comedian, actor
Key facts about Don Rickles — a quick reference of verified biographical data.
Detail Information
Full Name Donald Jay Rickles
Born May 8, 1926, Queens, New York, U.S.
Died April 6, 2017, Beverly Hills, California, U.S.
Occupation Stand-up comedian, actor
Years Active 1958–2017
Spouse Barbara Sklar (m. 1965)
Children 1
Net Worth $30 million (at death)
Notable Role Mr. Potato Head in Toy Story

Personal Life

Rickles married Barbara Sklar in 1965, and their union lasted until his death in 2017. They had one daughter, Mindy. His close friendships with Frank Sinatra and Clint Eastwood were well-documented, often arising from his work in the entertainment industry.

The implication: his personal life stood in stark contrast to his stage persona, revealing a deeply loyal and private man beneath the comic insults.

Death & Legacy

Don Rickles died on April 6, 2017, at age 90 from kidney failure. He was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame. His net worth at death was estimated at $30 million.

What this means: his legacy as a pioneer of insult comedy endures, influencing generations of comedians who followed.

Career Highlights

Rickles began performing stand-up in the 1950s, quickly gaining notoriety for his sharp-tongued, improvisational style. He became a regular on television variety shows and later voiced Mr. Potato Head in the Toy Story franchise, a role that introduced him to a new generation of fans.

“I just tell the truth and make it funny.” — Don Rickles

“He was one of the funniest people I ever met and a dear friend.” — Clint Eastwood

The takeaway: Don Rickles, the “Merchant of Venom,” proved that sharp humor could build a lasting career and deep friendships, leaving a legacy that still influences comedy today.