Don Saroyan was an American actor and performer who made his mark in theater, film, and television during the mid-20th century. While he may be best known as the first husband of legendary comedian Carol Burnett, Saroyan had a notable career in his own right. Let’s take a closer look at his life and legacy.
Who Was Don Saroyan? Â
Don Saroyan was born on October 4, 1928, in Omaha, Nebraska. He passed away on November 24, 1990, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 62. Saroyan worked as an actor, appearing in films such as Cuban Rebel Girls (1959) and Blast of Silence (1961). He also had roles in TV series like Airwolf in 1984.
In addition to acting, Saroyan contributed behind the scenes as part of the additional crew and sound department on various productions. He worked as an associate producer and production coordinator for television.
Early Life And Background
Details about Don Saroyan’s early life and upbringing are limited in the public record. He was born in 1928 in Omaha, Nebraska, but little is known about his childhood, education, or what led him to pursue a career in entertainment. Saroyan ultimately made his way to Los Angeles, where he found work as an actor starting in the late 1950s. He began to build his career with small roles in film and television.
Career As An Actor And Performer
Don Saroyan’s acting career spanned from the late 1950s into the 1980s. While he never became a major star, he worked steadily in supporting and minor roles. Some of his most notable acting credits include the 1959 film Cuban Rebel Girls and the 1961 neo-noir movie Blast of Silence. On television, he appeared in a 1984 episode of the action series Airwolf. Saroyan’s acting work allowed him to be part of the exciting world of film and TV. Though he wasn’t a leading man, he contributed to a variety of interesting projects throughout his career.
In addition to acting, Saroyan also worked behind the scenes in production roles. He was an associate producer and production coordinator on television specials and shows like Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In.
Marriage To Carol Burnett
In 1955, Don Saroyan married actress and comedian Carol Burnett, before she rose to fame. The couple was together for seven years until divorcing in 1962. Burnett discussed the marriage in her memoir, One More Time. She described eloping with Saroyan when they were both young performers in New York City. Though the marriage ended, Burnett expressed fondness and respect for Saroyan. She credited him with supporting her early career and remembered him as a nice man.
Saroyan and Burnett didn’t have any children together. After their divorce, Burnett went on to remarry and start a family, while also achieving massive success in her comedy career.
Why Did Don Saroyan And Carol Burnett Divorce?
After seven years of marriage, Don Saroyan and Carol Burnett divorced in 1962. In her book, Burnett opened up about the relationship and what led to the split. She described how the couple married young, when both were eager to find success as performers. However, as time passed, they realized they wanted different things.Â
Burnett’s career was taking off, while Saroyan was less driven to find stardom. She felt he didn’t share her ambition and wasn’t willing to make the sacrifices needed to “make it.” The marriage reached a breaking point and the couple parted ways. Despite the divorce, Burnett looked back on Saroyan with affection and acknowledged the role he played in her life.
Life After The Marriage
Following his divorce from Carol Burnett in 1962, Don Saroyan continued to work in entertainment. He acted steadily, if not prolifically, appearing in small roles through the 1980s. Saroyan also continued contributing in production capacities behind the scenes. He worked on TV specials and shows as an associate producer and coordinator.
Though his career never reached the heights of his famous ex-wife, Saroyan remained a working actor and entertainment professional for many years after the marriage ended. He passed away in 1990 at the age of 62.
Notable Works And Career Highlights
Throughout his career, Don Saroyan compiled a roster of notable acting roles and other professional highlights. Some standout acting credits include:
– Cuban Rebel Girls (1959 film)Â
– Blast of Silence (1961 film)
– Airwolf (1984 TV series)
Behind the scenes, Saroyan worked on television as an associate producer and production coordinator. He was part of the crew for the TV sketch comedy show Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In. While Saroyan may not have become a major celebrity, he built a solid career in the industry. He contributed to a variety of projects in front of and behind the camera.
Legacy And Remembrance
Today, Don Saroyan is remembered first and foremost as the first husband of Carol Burnett. His marriage to the comedy legend was a defining part of his life story. However, Saroyan was more than just Burnett’s ex-spouse. He was a working actor and entertainment professional who contributed to numerous projects throughout his career. Though he never became a household name, Saroyan left his mark on the industry. He was part of the rich tapestry of dedicated performers and creators who make film and television possible.
Saroyan passed away in 1990, but his work lives on. His credits, from acting roles to behind-the-scenes jobs, are a testament to his decades-long career in show business.
Conclusion
Don Saroyan may not be the most famous figure in entertainment history, but his life and career are worth remembering. As an actor, he appeared in notable films and TV shows from the 1950s through the 1980s. He also worked steadily in production roles behind the camera. Of course, Saroyan’s personal life also garnered attention, thanks to his marriage to Carol Burnett. Though the relationship ended in divorce, it was an important chapter in both of their lives. Ultimately, Don Saroyan was a dedicated performer and professional who made a mark on the entertainment world. His contributions, both on-screen and off, are part of the fascinating history of film and television in the 20th century.
