Paul Lynde

Paul Lynde – Life, Laughter, and a Legacy of Sharp Wit

Dive into the life of American comedian and actor Paul Lynde (June 13, 1926 – January 10, 1982). Explore his early years, breakthrough on The Hollywood Squares, memorable roles (like Uncle Arthur), his struggles, and lasting influence.

Introduction

Paul Edward Lynde was a comedic force whose flamboyant delivery, razor-sharp one-liners, and distinctive persona made him a beloved fixture in mid-20th century American television. Though his life had its share of tragedy and struggle, Lynde left a memorable mark on comedy, game shows, and popular culture. Known especially as the “center square” on The Hollywood Squares, and for recurring roles on shows like Bewitched, he remains remembered for his camp humor, biting sarcasm, and a voice that many still imitate today.

Early Life and Family

Paul Lynde was born on June 13, 1926, in Mount Vernon, Ohio, the fifth of six children.

A significant family loss occurred during World War II: his brother Coradon died in the Battle of the Bulge.

In high school, Lynde graduated from Mount Vernon High in 1944, where one of his roles was playing the bass drum in the school band. Northwestern University, studying speech and drama, graduating about 1948.

Career and Achievements

Early Years & Broadway Beginnings

After college, Lynde moved to New York City, taking odd jobs while performing stand-up comedy in nightclubs and supper clubs. New Faces of 1952, a showcase of fresh talent. New Faces (1954), in which Lynde also appeared.

From there, Lynde continued building his career in television and film, often via supporting roles.

Rise to Television Fame

One of Lynde’s most recognizable recurring TV roles was Uncle Arthur on Bewitched (1965–1971). Although he appeared in only about 10–11 episodes, his sharp, campy portrayal made the role memorable to fans. Bewitched, he also played a driving instructor in a guest appearance (“Driving Is the Only Way to Fly”).

Lynde also had a prominent presence on a host of other television shows—guest roles on The Munsters, I Dream of Jeannie, The Beverly Hillbillies, F Troop, The Patty Duke Show, and more.

But perhaps his most enduring mark was on the game show The Hollywood Squares. Starting in 1966 and especially from 1968 onward, Lynde became the iconic “center square,” known for delivering biting, humorous quips in response to contestant prompts.

Film & Voice Work

Lynde also appeared in movies, often in comedic or character roles. Among his film credits:

• Bye Bye Birdie (1963) as Harry MacAfee

• Son of Flubber (1963)

• Send Me No Flowers (1964)

• Beach Blanket Bingo (1965)

• The Glass Bottom Boat (1966)

• Rabbit Test (1978)

• The Villain (1979) as “Nervous Elk”

He also did voice acting in several Hanna-Barbera and animated productions. Some notable voice roles include:

• Templeton the rat in Charlotte’s Web

• Mildew Wolf in It’s the Wolf! segment of Cattanooga Cats

• Sylvester Sneekly (“The Hooded Claw”) in The Perils of Penelope Pitstop

• Claude Pertwee in Where’s Huddles?

He also participated in summer stock theatre (e.g. Kenley Players) in plays like Don't Drink the Water, Plaza Suite, The Impossible Years, often as a headliner.

Series & Specials

Paul Lynde headlined his own series, The Paul Lynde Show (1972–73), in which he played Paul Simms, a rather stodgy attorney and father.

He also starred in Temperatures Rising (1973–74), though that series likewise struggled.

In addition, Lynde was host of television specials and variety programs, such as the Paul Lynde Comedy Hour, Paul Lynde Halloween Special, and other prime-time events from the mid-1970s onward.

Personality, Struggles & Public Persona

Paul Lynde’s public image—campy, sarcastic, and flamboyant—often masked deeper tensions and inner challenges.

• Closeted sexuality: Though never publicly out during his lifetime, many of Lynde’s jokes and persona subtly hinted at his homosexuality.

• Alcohol and personal difficulties: Lynde struggled with alcoholism and had multiple run-ins with the law over public intoxication.

• Public incidents: In 1977, Lynde was involved in a controversial incident in Salt Lake City in which he was arrested near a tavern.

• Health & physical struggles: Lynde battled weight issues and health concerns throughout his life.

Despite all this, Lynde remained an extremely popular TV figure. He frequently topped polls of “most liked TV stars.”

Decline and Death

On January 10, 1982, Lynde was found dead in his home in Beverly Hills, California, by a friend who broke in when Lynde missed a planned gathering. heart attack.

He was 55 years old at the time of his death. Amity Cemetery in Knox County, Ohio.

In his final years, his career had cooled, partly due to his health and personal challenges. Yet his reputation as a comic remained high among fans and peers.

Legacy & Influence

• Iconic delivery: Lynde’s voice, timing, and snarky one-liners became his signature. His style continues to be imitated by comedians and impressionists.

• Game show impact: As the center square on The Hollywood Squares, he transformed what might have been a peripheral role into a highlight of the show, proving that a strong comedic voice can dominate even in a structured game format.

• Queer cultural icon (posthumously): In later decades, Lynde has been viewed as a figure of queer cultural history—symbolizing both the constraints of his time (forced closeting) and the power of humor and camp as expression.

• Voice influence in animation/pop culture: The creators of American Dad! and other shows have acknowledged that the voice of certain characters was inspired by Lynde’s tone.

• Biographies & retrospectives: A well-known biography Center Square: The Paul Lynde Story (2005) by Steve Wilson and Joe Florenski explores his life, humor, and hidden struggles.

Memorable Quotes

While Lynde was more famous for quips and reactions than extended speeches, here are a few lines and remarks that capture his voice:

“We live in a world that needs laughter, and I’ve decided if I can make people laugh, I'm making a more important contribution.”

Although difficult to verify exact origins, many of his Hollywood Squares lines follow this sly, self-aware spirit—double entendres, ironic asides, and clever deflection.

Lessons from Paul Lynde’s Life

1. A strong persona can elevate Q&A roles. Lynde turned his position on a game show into prime comedic real estate.

2. Humor can mask deeper struggles. Even the brightest stage persona may hide personal pain—recognizing that beneath public laughter are private tensions.

3. Constraints breed creativity. Working within the limitations of TV censorship and social norms, Lynde’s subtle innuendo and camp style found ways to express identity.

4. Legacy is multi-layered. While known for laughs, Lynde’s story also reflects the costs of hiding one’s self and the complexities of fame, health, and acceptance.

5. Voice and timing endure. A distinctive voice and delivery can outlast an era—impressions and tributes keep those styles alive.

Conclusion

Paul Lynde was more than a sharp-tongued comedian—he was a showman who claimed space for himself through wit, voice, and timing. In The Hollywood Squares, in Bewitched, and beyond, he lit up screens with a delivery that was equal parts razor edge and camp charm. His life was marked by contradictions: laughter and sorrow, concealment and expression, success and struggle. Yet his influence persists—not only in comedic homage and impression, but in the way his story reminds us that humor, voice, and authenticity matter even when the world demands you hide your true self.