A leading name in contemporary comedy, Crystal has achieved great success as a comedian, sitcom and film actor, sketch comic, filmmaker, and awards show host. A likable stand-up comic, Crystal made the comedy club rounds before being featured on the popular spoof, "Soap" (ABC, 1977-81), as Jodie Dallas, one of TV's first openly gay series regulars. He went on to TV-movies, specials, a fleeting variety show of his own, and a busted pilot before becoming a crucial member of the "Saturday Night Live" ensemble--which then included Martin Short, Christopher Guest, and Harry Shearer--during the
When Hugh Jackman puts his swarthy charm on full display as host of this year's Oscars, his legacy (and likelihood of being hired again) will be cemented by the time the first-timer's intro bit has wrapped.Hosting the Academy…
First theater job, as house manager for "You're a Good Man Charlie Brown" (date approximate)
Formed comedy group, variously billed as We the People, Comedy Jam, and Three's Company, with two other Nassau College Alumni
1969
Worked as part-time teacher before becoming solo stand-up comedian; first gig was at a NYU fraternity house
1975
Scheduled to perform stand-up on the first episode of "Saturday Night Live"; walked off the set when ordered to cut his five-minute routine down to two minutes
1977
TV series debut as Jody, a regular character on "Soap"
