Robert Klein

Robert Klein – Life, Career, and Influence

Explore the life and career of Robert Klein — American stand-up comedian, actor, and singer. From his Bronx roots and early improv days to Broadway, film, and his mark on modern comedy.

Introduction

Robert Klein (born February 8, 1942) is a venerable figure in American comedy, celebrated for his witty observational style, musical inflections, and versatility as a performer. Over a career spanning six decades, Klein has worked in stand-up, television, Broadway, film, writing, and more. He is regarded as one of the key innovators in stand-up comedy in the 1970s (alongside Richard Pryor and George Carlin).

Television & Hosting

• In 1975, Klein hosted Saturday Night Live during its first season, making him one of the early comedic voices in that landmark show. He also hosted SNL again in 1978.

• In the mid-1980s, he hosted Robert Klein Time, a late-night talk show on USA Network (1986–1988).

• He guest-starred on many TV series, with recurring roles—for example on Sisters (1993–1996). He also appeared in Law & Order: SVU, The Good Wife, Madam Secretary, Will & Grace, and others.

• Klein is credited with over 100 appearances on The Tonight Show and Late Show with David Letterman.

Broadway, Theater & Awards

Klein also pursued theatrical roles:

• He made his Broadway debut in The Apple Tree opposite Alan Alda.

• In 1979, he starred in Neil Simon’s musical They’re Playing Our Song (with Lucie Arnaz) and earned a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor in a Musical.

• In 1993–94 he earned an Obie Award and Outer Critics Circle Award for his performance in Wendy Wasserstein’s The Sisters Rosensweig.

Film & Acting

Klein’s acting work extends across film and voice roles:

• Early on, he had roles in The Owl and the Pussycat (1970) and The Landlord (1970).

• He appeared in Hooper (1978), Radioland Murders (1994), One Fine Day (1996), Primary Colors (1998), The Safety of Objects (2001), Two Weeks Notice (2002), How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days (2003), Reign Over Me (2007), among others.

• He also took voice roles: e.g. in The Last Unicorn (1982).

• In recent years, he has continued acting in television and film, including roles in Madam Secretary, Will & Grace, etc.

Writing & Memoir

In 2006, Klein published his memoir, The Amorous Busboy of Decatur Avenue: A Child of the Fifties Looks Back. His memoir reflects on his upbringing, career, and observations through the decades.

A documentary, Robert Klein Still Can’t Stop His Leg, was released in 2016 to celebrate his life and career.

Style, Themes & Influence

Robert Klein’s comedic voice is distinctive for several features:

• Observational & autobiographical: He draws from his own life, generational memory, and social change.

• Narrative & character voices: He often shifts into multiple characters, uses voice inflection, and interweaves stories.

• Musical and song elements: His stand-up occasionally incorporates songs, harmonica, and musical parody.

• Balanced social commentary: Unlike more fiery satirists, his style is witty, ironic, and often gentle—but still incisive in critiquing media, politics, culture.

• Legacy bridging old and contemporary: Klein’s influence is often cited by later comedians who saw in him a way to blend intellect, storytelling, and stand-up. For example, Jerry Seinfeld called Klein “the Beatles of comedy” to him.

His influence is acknowledged by comedians including Bill Maher, Billy Crystal, Richard Lewis, Jay Leno, and Jerry Seinfeld.

Personal Life

Robert Klein married opera singer Brenda Boozer in 1973; they later divorced in 1989. They had one son, Alexander Stuart “Allie” Klein, who has also pursued comedy.

Klein continues to remain active in performance, writing, and occasional acting roles.

Notable Quotes

While Klein is more known for his routines than aphorisms, here are a few lines that reflect his approach and humor:

• “I can’t stop my leg.” — a running gag and punchline he used in his performances.

• On his own influence: Jerry Seinfeld said, “He was The Beatles of comedy to me.”

Lessons from Robert Klein’s Journey

1. Evolve with your voice. Klein started with observational humor rooted in his own life and matured into multi-media performer (stage, TV, film).

2. Blend art forms. Incorporating music, character voices, and storytelling enriched his stand-up and set him apart.

3. Root comedy in sincerity. He demonstrates that social commentary works best when grounded in personal truth, not mere outrage.

4. Longevity through adaptability. Klein moved across mediums and eras, staying relevant without compromising his signature style.

5. Influence matters more than fame. Though not always the flashiest name today, his imprint on modern comedians and comedy structure is profound.

Conclusion

Robert Klein is more than a stand-up comedian; he is a storyteller, actor, singer, and a bridge between comedy’s past and present. His smooth comedic voice, combined with intelligence and musicality, made him a touchstone for later comic voices. From Bronx roots to broad influence on stage, screen, and in the comedy world, his legacy endures.