Ep 4. Telly Savalas

In season 1 episode 4 of The Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts, the target of the roasting is none other than beloved actor Telly Savalas. The episode originally aired on January 30, 1974.

As with all episodes of the show, the premise is simple – a celebrity subject is chosen, and a group of comedians, actors, and other famous figures gather to “roast” them with a series of witty jokes, barbs, and insults. In this case, Telly Savalas is the recipient of these humorous jabs, and the episode promises to be a hilarious and memorable one.

As host of the show, Dean Martin sets the tone for the evening with his effortless charm and smooth delivery. He introduces the lineup of roasters, which includes famous names such as Angie Dickinson, Milton Berle, and Rich Little.

From the outset, it’s clear that Telly Savalas is a popular choice for a roast – the audience is clearly excited to see him take some good-natured ribbing from his fellow celebrities. Savalas himself takes the jokes in stride, laughing and clapping along with the crowd as the roasters come up with increasingly creative ways to poke fun at him.

One of the highlights of the episode is the appearance of fellow actor and friend Burt Lancaster, who delivers an emotional tribute to Savalas that brings tears to the eyes of many in the audience. It’s a touching moment that showcases the deep connections between the celebrities who participate in the roasts.

Of course, the real draw of the show is the comedy. Throughout the episode, the roasters get in plenty of zingers and one-liners at Savalas’ expense. Some of the jokes are predictable but still get a big laugh – for example, many of the roasters reference Savalas’ signature bald head, with quips like “Telly, your head is so shiny it’s like a bowling ball with a face painted on it.” Others take a more creative approach, with Rich Little doing spot-on impressions of famous people like Richard Nixon and Ronald Reagan.

Throughout it all, Savalas remains a good sport, joining in the laughter and giving back as good as he gets. The episode is a testament to the camaraderie and humor that exists among celebrities, and it’s clear that everyone involved is having a great time.

Overall, season 1 episode 4 of The Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts is a must-watch for fans of classic comedy. The jokes are sharp, the roasters are top-notch, and Telly Savalas proves to be a worthy subject of all the lighthearted jabs. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the show or just discovering it for the first time, this episode is sure to leave you grinning from ear to ear.