# Red Buttons

> American comedian and actor (1919–2006)

**Wikidata**: [Q313198](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q313198)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Red_Buttons)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/red-buttons

## Summary
Red Buttons was an American comedian and actor renowned for his distinctive comedic style and versatile career in film, television, and theater. Born Aaron Chwatt, he achieved prominence with an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, leaving a lasting legacy in entertainment.

## Biography
- **Born**: February 5, 1919  
- **Nationality**: United States  
- **Known for**: Comedic performances, Academy Award-winning acting, and contributions to film and television.  
- **Field(s)**: Comedy, film, television, theater.  

## Contributions
- **Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor**: Won for his role in *Sayonara* (1957), a dramatic departure from his comedic work.  
- **Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame**: Recognized for his contributions to the entertainment industry.  
- **Comedic Career**: Performed in nightclubs, television, and film, blending witty one-liners with physical comedy.  
- **Film and Television Roles**: Appeared in Westerns, dramas, and comedies, including *The Longest Day* (1962) and *Alice* (1985).  

## FAQs
**What were Red Buttons’ most notable achievements?**  
He won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for *Sayonara* (1957) and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.  

**How did Red Buttons transition from comedy to acting?**  
He began as a stand-up comedian in nightclubs before expanding into film and television, showcasing his range in both comedic and dramatic roles.  

**What genres did Red Buttons work in?**  
He contributed to Westerns, comedies, and dramas across film and television, demonstrating versatility in multiple genres.  

## Why They Matter
Red Buttons’ unique comedic voice and successful transition to dramatic acting influenced generations of performers. His Academy Award win highlighted his range, challenging perceptions of comedians in serious roles. His work in film and television helped shape mid-20th-century entertainment, leaving a legacy as a multifaceted entertainer.

## Notable For
- Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor (*Sayonara*, 1957).  
- Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.  
- Versatility in comedy, film, and television.  
- Performances in iconic films like *The Longest Day* (1962).  

## Body
### Early Life and Career Beginnings  
Born Aaron Chwatt on February 5, 1919, Red Buttons began his career in show business as a teenager, working in small nightclubs and theaters. He adopted the stage name "Red Buttons" due to his red hair and uniform buttons from a childhood job. By the 1930s, he gained recognition for his sharp comedic timing and improvisational skills.

### Rise to Fame  
Buttons’ comedic career flourished in the 1940s and 1950s, with frequent appearances on early television shows and in films. His act often featured humorous anecdotes and playful audience interactions, earning him a reputation as a master of one-liners. He became a staple in both live entertainment and emerging television comedy.

### Transition to Dramatic Roles  
In 1957, Buttons shifted to dramatic acting, starring in *Sayonara*, a role that earned him the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. This transition showcased his versatility and expanded his career into serious film roles, including war dramas like *The Longest Day* (1962).

### Television and Later Work  
Throughout the 1960s–1980s, Buttons balanced film roles with television appearances, guest-starring in popular series and maintaining a presence in comedy specials. His later career included roles in *Alice* (1985) and *The Love Boat*, cementing his status as a beloved entertainer.

### Legacy  
Red Buttons’ impact lies in his ability to excel in both comedy and drama, bridging the gap between stage, screen, and television. His awards and enduring popularity reflect his adaptability and talent, ensuring his place as a memorable figure in American entertainment history.

## References

1. Virtual International Authority File
2. Integrated Authority File
3. BnF authorities
4. Czech National Authority Database
5. [Source](https://www.oscars.org/oscars/ceremonies/1958)
6. International Standard Name Identifier
7. MusicBrainz
8. SNAC
9. Internet Broadway Database
10. Find a Grave
11. Discogs
12. filmportal.de
13. [Source](http://www.cnn.com/2006/SHOWBIZ/Movies/07/13/obit.buttons.ap/index.html)
14. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
15. CONOR.SI
16. Cinemathèque québécoise Linked Open Data
17. The Movie Database