Did a comedian ever shatter the glass ceiling of the comedy world, not just with jokes, but with a persona that became an icon? Phyllis Diller, with her signature fright wig, exaggerated makeup, and self-deprecating humor, not only broke barriers but redefined what it meant to be a female comedian.
Phyllis Ada Diller, born Phyllis Ada Driver in Lima, Ohio, in 1917, left an indelible mark on the world of comedy. Her journey, from a suburban housewife to a comedy legend, is a testament to her resilience and comedic genius. Her life, however, wasnt solely about the punchlines; it was a tapestry woven with the threads of family, personal struggles, and the unwavering pursuit of her dreams. She married Sherwood Diller in 1939, and for many years she was a devoted housewife, raising her children in suburban San Francisco. Previously, her friends would often tell her that she was funny and that she would tell jokes at PTA meetings at Edison Elementary School. It was in 1955, at the age of 37, that she made the pivotal decision to give comedy a chance, setting in motion a career that would span decades and influence generations of comedians.
| Full Name | Phyllis Ada Diller (ne Driver) |
| Born | July 17, 1917, Lima, Ohio, USA |
| Died | August 20, 2012 (aged 95), Brentwood, California, USA |
| Occupation | Comedian, Actress, Author |
| Known For | Pioneering female comedian, self-deprecating humor, unique stage persona |
| Spouse(s) | Sherwood Diller (m. 19391965, divorced), Ward Donovan (m. 19651975, divorced) |
| Children | Perry Diller, Peter Diller, Sally Diller, Stephanie Diller, Susan Diller; One child died in infancy |
| Notable Works | Phyllis Diller's Housekeeping Hints (1966), numerous comedy albums and television appearances |
| Associated Acts | Many television shows and comedy specials throughout her career |
| Lifetime Achievement Awards | She was awarded "lifetime achievement" award from her hometown of Lima, Ohio |
| Reference Website | Britannica |
Phyllis Diller's path into comedy began somewhat unconventionally. Her husband, Sherwood Diller, was battling with growing agoraphobia which eventually worsened and impacted the family's financial stability. As a result, she had to get a job. According to her son Perry, she initially created a copywriting job at Macy's, and this led her into a gig at a radio station. It was a radical shift for a woman of her generation, especially one who had been a housewife for so many years. Then, at the age of 37, she decided to give comedy a shot, taking her first tentative steps onto the stage. This marked the beginning of her prolific career.
Her comedic style was instantly recognizable. The fright wigs, the exaggerated makeup, the crazy clothes, and even the cigarette holder she used to punctuate her jokes (despite being a nonsmoker) were all part of a meticulously crafted persona. But behind the zany facade was a sharp wit and impeccable timing. Her humor was often self-deprecating, centered around her fictional, homely husband "Fang" and their tumultuous marriage, and her own perceived shortcomings. She was a master of one-liners and observational comedy, tackling everything from marriage and motherhood to aging and social anxieties. These themes made her relatable, and made her one of the most popular comedians of her era.
While her comedic persona often involved outlandish tales about her husband Fang, Phyllis Dillers real life was equally filled with challenges. She married Sherwood Diller in 1939 and they had six children together: Perry, Peter, Sally, Stephanie, Susan, and another child who died in infancy. The loss of a child, often referred to as an angel baby, is a profoundly difficult experience, and it's a sensitive topic. Dealing with these difficulties, and managing to navigate these obstacles while maintaining a successful career in the spotlight, underscores her resilience.
The impact of Diller's comedy extends beyond the laughter she generated. She opened doors for female comedians. In a male-dominated industry, she carved out a space for herself, proving that women could be funny, successful, and outspoken. She paved the way for countless other female performers, from Joan Rivers to Ellen DeGeneres, by showing that there was a place for women in the world of comedy. Her success challenged conventional norms and inspired a generation of women to pursue their comedic dreams.
The name "Phyllis" itself is a testament to history, and holds meaning. Derived from the Greek word "phullon," which means "leaf," the name evokes images of nature and growth. The name "Phyllis" saw significant popularity in the early 20th century. According to 1927 U.S. Social Security Administration data, it ranked 33rd in popularity as a baby girl's name in Pennsylvania alone. From 1916 to 1958, "Phyllis" remained within the top 100 names, reaching its peak at #24 in 1929, signifying a widespread appeal across the United States. It also brings to mind the Greek mythological figure of Phyllis, a woman transformed into an almond tree. This is a symbolic representation of strength and enduring beauty.
Dillers career was marked by many milestones. She was a regular on television, appearing on countless talk shows, variety shows, and game shows. She also starred in numerous comedy specials and had a successful run on the stage. Her longevity in the industry is a testament to her talent and her ability to adapt to changing times. She was able to maintain her popularity for several decades, and she was still performing well into her 90s.
On May 15, 2012, she gave her farewell interview after earning the "Lifetime Achievement" award from her hometown of Lima, Ohio. Just months later, on August 20, 2012, Phyllis Diller passed away at the age of 95 in her home in Brentwood, California. She passed away with a smile on her face. She had broken her back and was forced to postpone her 90th birthday celebration appearance on the Tonight Show. Her legacy lives on through her work and the countless comedians she inspired.
The comedic world, and indeed, the world as a whole, is often influenced by the individuals who challenge convention and redefine the status quo. Phyllis Diller was such an individual, and her mark on comedy endures. Her influence and the unique character she embodied, remain a significant part of her legacy, and her ability to find humor in the everyday realities of life made her not only a comedian but a cultural icon.
While her comedic style may have seemed unconventional at the time, her impact is clear. She broke down gender barriers, making it easier for women to pursue careers in comedy and entertainment. As a result, she is not only celebrated for her humor and comedic genius but also for her significant contributions to the evolution of comedy.
Phyllis Diller's story reminds us that humor can be a powerful tool for overcoming challenges and achieving success, and also a lesson in how to deal with adversity. While it's true that Susan Lucci and Phyllis Diller are not related, they are both known for their respective roles, Lucci in soap operas and Diller in comedy. The world of entertainment has become better with these legendary actresses.
