Behind every famous star, there are often important figures who played a meaningful role in their journey. One such individual is Don Saroyan, an American actor and producer best known for his marriage to legendary actress and comedian Carol Burnett. While his own career was relatively short-lived, his connection to Burnett and his contributions in entertainment have kept his name alive in public memory.
This article explores his life from early beginnings to professional endeavors, his marriage, and the legacy he left behind.
Who is Don Saroyan?
Don Saroyan was an American actor and producer born on October 4, 1928, in Omaha, Nebraska. He shared the same last name as the famous writer William Saroyan, though there is no close relation between them.
Saroyan gained some recognition during the 1950s and 1960s as an actor and later as a Broadway producer. However, he is most widely remembered for being the first husband of Carol Burnett, one of television’s most beloved comedians and performers.
Although his career never reached the heights of his famous spouse, he remains an interesting figure in Hollywood history.
Early Life and Background
He grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, where he developed an early interest in the performing arts. From a young age, he was drawn to acting and storytelling, which eventually led him to pursue opportunities in theater and film.
Like many aspiring entertainers of his generation, he worked his way into the industry during a time when Hollywood was booming, and Broadway was thriving. His Midwestern roots provided him with a grounded perspective, even as he moved toward the fast-paced world of show business.
Career and Professional Life
Saroyan’s professional career was a mix of acting and producing. While he never became a household name, he did manage to secure work on both stage and screen.
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Acting: Don Saroyan appeared in small roles in film and television, though many of his performances have faded into obscurity with time.
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Producing: Perhaps his most notable professional achievement came as a Broadway producer. He was credited as the producer of The Burning Bright, a stage adaptation of John Steinbeck’s play.
Though his career never soared to stardom, Saroyan remained connected to the entertainment industry, largely through his relationship with Burnett during their marriage.
Marriage to Carol Burnett
One of the most defining aspects of Don Saroyan’s life was his marriage to Carol Burnett, who later became one of America’s most iconic comedians.
How They Met
Saroyan and Burnett met during their early years in New York City, when both were pursuing careers in entertainment. Their shared passion for theater and performance created an instant bond, and the two quickly grew close.
Life Together
The couple married on December 15, 1955. During their marriage, Burnett was still building her career, taking small roles in television and stage productions. Saroyan provided support as she worked her way up in the industry.
Although their relationship was full of youthful energy and optimism, the pressures of show business and the demands of Burnett’s rising career placed strain on their marriage.
Divorce and Aftermath
Don and Carol Burnett divorced in 1962, after about seven years of marriage. The separation was amicable, and both moved on with their lives. Burnett would later marry television producer Joe Hamilton, with whom she had three children.
While Saroyan’s life became more private after the divorce, Burnett’s career skyrocketed, especially with the debut of The Carol Burnett Show in 1967.
Later Years and Personal Life
Following his divorce, Don Saroyan largely stepped back from the spotlight. Unlike many Hollywood figures, he chose to live a quieter life, away from the constant public attention.
He continued to be remembered for his early work and his connection to Carol Burnett, though he did not pursue high-profile projects in his later years.
He passed away on November 24, 1990, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 62. Though his life ended relatively early, he left behind a modest legacy in theater and film.
Legacy and Influence
Don Saroyan’s legacy is often overshadowed by Carol Burnett’s immense success, but he played a role in the early chapters of her story. His efforts as an actor and producer, particularly in bringing plays like The Burning Bright to life, show his genuine love for the arts.
Though he may not have reached fame in his own right, his story reminds us that not every contribution to entertainment is measured in awards or public recognition. Sometimes, it is about the behind-the-scenes dedication that helps shape the careers of others.
Conclusion
Don Saroyan may not be a name everyone knows, but his life offers a glimpse into the world of mid-20th-century theater and Hollywood. From his early beginnings in Nebraska to his work as an actor and producer, and his marriage to Carol Burnett, Saroyan lived a life connected to creativity and performance.
While he passed away decades ago, his memory endures through his work and his role in the life of one of television’s greatest stars. His story is a reminder of the countless figures who, even if not in the limelight, contribute to the ever-evolving history of entertainment.
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