Jack Riley with Emerson College

In his one-hour interview for the American Comedy Archives at Emerson College, Jack Riley (1924-2016) talks about his early years and performing sketches in college. He recalls his first job in television, as a writer for The Don Rickles Show, and how he has dealt with managers and agents over his career. He discusses stints acting on The Joey Bishop Show, Rowan & Martin’s Laugh-In, and his friendship with Don Adams’ brother Dick Yarmy, which led to the creation of the “Yarmy’s Army” group of friends. Riley recounts playing the memorable character of “Elliott Carlin” on several episodes of The Bob Newhart Show, as well as working with Newhart over the years. He details the many who have influenced his acting and comedy, including people like Jackie Gleason and Jonathan Winters. He concludes by playing a few of his comedic song compositions. Bill Dana and Jenni Matz conducted the interview on February 14, 2007 in Hollywood, CA.