I’ll close out this year’s celebration of Italians with the news about Al. He passed away yesterday at 96! What a run for that guy, I’m debating whether or not I want to live so long given the ruthless nature of American Capitalism.
Anyway, many my age will always remember him as Al, the guy who took over Arnold’s from Pat Morita on Happy Days. When the show ended, I frequently saw him in commercials plugging On-Cor frozen food; that stuff was the equivalent of frozen Sbarro, but it was affordable. It was great to see him return in Weezer’s “Buddy Holly” video as he closed with his signature catchphrase, “yup yup yup.”
Before Happy Days, I would see him in The Odd Couple sitcom through its syndication. Al was the recurring character Murry, an NYC flatfoot. I think he was Oscar’s friend since cop work seemed a little untidy for Felix.
Last known fact about him, Al was born and raised in Kenosha, WI. His obit in the New York Times mentions. I knew all along because when I first visited Milwaukee in May 1986, some stranger at the downtown Howard Johnson’s restaurant told me, along with Daniel Travanti (Hill Street Blues). Can’t remember why he shared this piece of trivia.
Farewell Al. Off to the great diner in the sky or maybe he’ll be haunting Kopp’s Frozen Custard, the alleged inspiration for the long-running show.