Introduction
Pat Harrington Jr. was an exceptionally versatile actor, comedian and voice-over artist with a career spanning over six decades. He was known for his wit, charm and impeccable comic timing. The actor was particularly famous for his role as building superintendent Dwayne Schneider in the popular TV series, “One Day at a Time.” Pat Harrington Jr.’s legacy extends beyond his wonderfully crafted punchlines and hilarious performances to his humanitarianism. In this blog post, we’ll uncover the life and achievements of this iconic figure and how he continues to inspire and entertain us even after his passing.
Section 1: A Brief Biography
Pat Harrington Jr. was born in 1929 in New York City. His father had been a professional football player, and his mother was a vaudeville dancer. Therefore, it was natural for Pat to get interested in the entertainment industry. After graduating from high school, he attended Syracuse University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. However, he left the corporate world and ventured towards his passion for acting, becoming a regular performer at the nightclubs in Greenwich Village.
Section 2: Early Career
Pat Harrington Jr. began his career as an actor in the early 1950s, appearing in various TV shows and films. The role that truly established him as a comedian was his character “Guido Panzini” on the show “Steve Allen Show.” He became a regular cast member for five years and earned an Emmy award for his performances. After that, he continued to make numerous appearances in other TV shows, including “Make Room for Daddy,” “The Munsters,” and “The Jackie Gleason Show.”
Section 3: One Day at a Time
Pat Harrington Jr.’s most memorable role was his portrayal of “Dwayne Schneider” in the CBS comedy series “One Day at a Time.” In the show, he played a handyman who becomes the building superintendent. Throughout the duration of the series, Pat’s character becomes a beloved fan favorite, known for his humor and witty remarks. His portrayal of Schneider earned him a Golden Globe award in 1981 for “Best Supporting Actor – Television Series.”
Section 4: Voice acting
In addition to his on-screen roles, Pat Harrington Jr. was also a prolific voice-actor. He lent his voice to several famous animated productions, including the Scooby-Doo franchise, where he played “Speed Buggy and “The Great Gazoo” in the Flintstones series. His talent for voice-over work extended to video games, where he voiced several characters in hit games like “Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater.”
Section 5: Life and Work Legacy
Pat Harrington Jr. was not only a comic icon but was renowned for his humanitarianism and charitable work. He dedicated his time and efforts to various organizations, including the Supportive Housing Network, which provides housing for the homeless in New York City. In 2009, Syracuse University honored him with the George Arents Award for his contribution to the entertainment industry and charitable work.
Section 6: 7 FAQs
1. Who did Pat Harrington Jr. play in ‘One Day at a Time?’
Pat Harrington Jr. played the character of building superintendent Dwayne Schneider in ‘One Day at a Time’.
2. What kind of roles did Pat Harrington Jr. play?
Pat Harrington Jr. was a versatile actor but was primarily known for his comedic roles.
3. In which animated series did Pat Harrington Jr. lend his voice?
Pat Harrington Jr. lent his voice in the popular animated series Scooby-Doo, where he played Speed Buggy, and in The Flintstones, where he voiced the character of The Great Gazoo.
4. What award did Pat Harrington Jr. win for his performance in ‘One Day at a Time’?
Pat Harrington Jr. won the Golden Globe award for ‘Best Supporting Actor- Television Series’ for his performance in ‘One Day at a Time.’
5. What was Pat Harrington Jr.’s educational background?
Pat Harrington Jr. graduated from Syracuse University with a degree in Business Administration.
6. Was Pat Harrington Jr. Involved in any charitable work?
Yes, Pat Harrington Jr. dedicated his time and efforts to various charitable organizations, including the Supportive Housing Network, which provides housing for the homeless in New York City.
7. What award did Syracuse University honour Pat Harrington Jr. with?
In 2009, Syracuse University honoured Pat Harrington Jr. with the George Arents Award for his contribution to the entertainment industry and charitable work.
Section 7: Remembering the Icon
Pat Harrington Jr. passed away on January 6, 2016, at the age of 86. However, his legacy continues to inspire and entertain people worldwide. His wit, humor and acting skills are still unparalleled, and his contribution to the entertainment industry cannot be overstated. He will always be remembered as a legend in the world of comedy.
Section 8: Call to action
Pat Harrington Jr.’s life and achievements are a testament to the power of hard work, passion, and dedication. His journey is a source of inspiration for anyone who dreams of pursuing their passion and following their dreams. We should always strive to learn from the lives of such influential figures and keep their legacies alive. Watch his shows, read his interviews, and cherish his impact on the entertainment industry. Pat Harrington Jr. may be gone, but he will always be remembered as a guiding light for aspiring actors and comedians.