Phyllis Diller with Groucho Marx on You Bet Your Life

[@TerryEbertMendozza]

Phyllis was my “second” mother, and I have never seen this clip. Yes, in real life, THIS is Phyllis, but someone commented she didn’t have “the laugh” in real life. Yes, she did. Her laugh in real life was exactly the same. In fact, she would throw her head back and laugh so hard,, it was infectious. For 35 years, we literally tore up Beverly Hills and Brentwood, where she lived, having more fun than a barrel of monkeys. Phyllis’ favorite restaurant was Chez Mimi in Brentwood, where we could be found a couple of times a week enjoying the Poulet Moutard. Phyllis was also a very fine cook; an incredible artist; a classical pianist who performed with major symphonies; and besides taking care of her adult children financially, continued to work until she was about 90. The biggest tragedies of her life, were the deaths of her oldest son, and her beautiful daughter Stephanie, who died from a brain hemhorrage while gardening. To understand the strength and beauty of Phyllis, I must tell you that Stephanie died two days before Phyllis’ birthday. Instead of the usual huge birthday party we always had, we had a small group of women to the house, including dearest friends Debbie Reynolds, Ruta Lee and Delores Hope and Delores’ daughter. Not one of these dear friends knew of Stephanie’s passing. The night before her birthday, she appeared on Larry King, and she did not mention the tragedy which had just happened - it was a commitment, and Phyllis, the consummate performer, kept her commitments. Only after Phyllis got extremely tired, did she ask me to say goodbye to everyone, and she went into her bedroom. I told only Debbie and Ruta, who stayed a while longer to talk and enquire about funeral arrangements. There would be none. The one thing Phyllis could not acknowledge was death. It was too final. When Phyllis passed on August 20, 2012, there also would be no funeral. She wanted everyone to remember her as she was - beautiful, funny, kind, talented, never angry, always happy to be stopped by and talk with a fan; and simply, to me, the most wonderful “Mom” in the world. Not a day goes by that I don’t miss her; her joie d’vivre, and her desire to make those around her a better person. In the age of “dirty” comedy today, it was a blessing to see her shows, which were completely family friendly without a bad word ever being spoken. Yes, her jokes were often too cerebral for the audience, because Phyllis was Mensa - one of the highest IQ’s ever. But she would hesitate for a moment, until the audience “got it”. Her rapid fire delivery was adopted by many comedians and of course, she was the very first female stand-up comedienne, for which every woman today has her to thank. Phyllis was a true gem, and there will never be another like her. From Terry Ebert-Mendozza, proud to be her honorary daughter.

[@CladriteRadio]

Thanks so much for sharing your memories of Ms. Diller, Terry. Did she ever tell you about her appearance on You Bet Your Life?

[@TerryEbertMendozza]

Cladrite Radio no. Phyllis was very much an “in the moment” person. She never dwelled on the past. She never talked about the past, except to say of course that Fang was not a real person. She did tell me about working at The Purple Onion and being a writer when she was young, and of course, we talked about the plastic surgery, because truly, she was a beautiful woman, and she wasn’t ashamed about that. I think it made plastic surgery more in the open. She really is the one who had to support her family, especially because two of her daughters (not Stephanie) were mentally challenged; one institutionalized and one was happy so long as Phyllis supported her and her horses. She did, unfortunately, make some bad choices in men, such as Sherwood, the father of her children, and Warde Donovan, but she did meet the true love of her life, attorney Bob Hastings, late in life, and they took many cruises together, sometimes not even coming out of the cabin; just lying together, looking at the ocean and talking. He was such a wonderful man. When Bob died, that is the most devastated I ever saw Phyllis. She then met another lawyer at a party,, Alden Pearse, who was also a lovely gentleman, and we all had great times together. Unfortunately Alden passed away from cancer on Christmas Eve, and that was also a devastating experience. After Bob and Alden, Phyllis mostly just went out with friends like George Chakiris, Elliot Gould, and a realtor friend Bruce and a friend, Bernie Shine, another lawyer who owned the largest Disney collection in the USA. She was never at loss for an escort, but the real love of her life was Bob Hastings, a quiet, dignified man. She truly loved him. She also loved Bob Hope, but respected Dolores, and Bob stayed mostly at home at night, where Phyllis loved to go out!

[@CladriteRadio]

@@TerryEbertMendozza Thanks again for sharing your memories!

[@Q.Gold30]

@@TerryEbertMendozza Thank you dear you are incredibly beautiful.e

[@TerryEbertMendozza]

@@Q.Gold30 thank you, Sir.

[@kenthuang436]

Seeing Phyllis on the same stage with a legend of comedy Groucho Marx is simply amazing. Both made important contributions to the art of comedy.

[@jeffincharlestonsc]

Its so strange to see her so meek and quite! Loved her when i was a kid, she was hitting her stride in the 70's

[@Farrah300]

I saw an interview she did years ago, and she said that she was actually nervous on this show. That's why she was more calm.

[@rah62]

quite what?

[@rongold7719]

@@rah62quiet

[@PoutinePete]

I love Phyllis Diller's delivery. She was one of a kind.

[@justinebeaver1419]

My doctor is a weekend comedian.....I love his delivery.😎

[@leahetchison4748]

@@justinebeaver1419 fxafop

[@brianallen3029]

@@leahetchison4748 p

[@donkeyslayer4661]

This is long before she was famous.

[@justinebeaver1419]

@@donkeyslayer4661 - When she became famous, she had enough money to get her beak fixed.🐔

[@poetcomic1]

Groucho was always proud of having her on TV the first time and mentioned her often.

[@wvcricker5683]

I loved Phyllis Diller when I was little.. And, she, like Lucille Ball, proves that life does not end at 40! Phyllis started her career in her late 30s, while Lucy started her family at 40.. it’s never too late to live your dreams ❤️

[@TomRivieremusic]

I was very fortunate to be on the same show with her in 1961. My parents and I was 13 yrs, old, was the opening act for her at Ceasers Monticello in Framingham, Massachusetts. She had a big smile. Nice lady. You know you're getting old when everyone around you is passing away.

[@harriet10001]

She was so sweet and charming in those days ..and as for the comment for her being ugly....that so called ugliness became a billion dollar face!! Rip sweet lady!

[@MsLilyhorse]

Exactly. Everybody in show business said she was a pleasure to work with - nice lady. I remember reading her book when I was a kid. She was a pioneer in that she was a housewife and made the transition to show business.

[@babygretz5]

harriet tedley .....5 KIDS TOO !!!....I had forgotten ...she had drive, determination & guts (but still radiated charm)... . thanks for your post ..I respect & admire her too ...

[@MetaphysicalMusician]

She wasn't ugly...just played her look down for her act..on the contrary she was bright and attractive

[@KDL861]

harriet tedley I know it’s been 5 years since your comment but you and I have a lot in common ! I love Phyllis!!! A true legend! She and Don Rickles have always been my faves!! Thanks for your comment! ❤️😂

[@KDL861]

Phil Tay Totally agree!

[@ssnoc]

Phyllis Diller was the pioneer who created the path for all future female comedians to follow - a very important and influential person in comedy.

[@KDL861]

Rob It’s true!

[@rodh1404]

Nothing against Phyllis Diller, but I'd say Lucille Ball has her beat.

[@KDL861]

Rod H Hey Rob... Lucy was quoted saying she cold follow a script and act funny but she never could write funny. Phyllis thought and acted funny. Blessings. 🙏

[@rodh1404]

@@KDL861 I hadn't heard that, but it doesn't surprise me - Lucy seemed to prefer rehearsed routines over improv. But to me, that's just a different style of comedy, and it's hard to deny the influence Lucille Ball, particularly through the show I Love Lucy, has had on modern comedy. Again, I'm not going to deny that Phyllis Diller was good, because she was, just that I think the influence of Lucille Ball is greater. But if you really want to focus on writing, then you should consider Madelyn Pugh Davis, who along with Bob Carroll, Jr was one of the key writers for the various Lucy shows over Lucy's entire career.

[@liwanagbautista8780]

Not Lucille Ball?....hmmmm are you sure about that.

[@beverlytaylor5588]

OMG what a treat to see Phyllis, I loved her so much growing up, she's a class act!

[@Q.Gold30]

I agree with you Beverly

[@arizonanative7409]

She was funny! "He lets me sit up!" I have always been a fan and think she was very courageous to get out there like she did! Miss her.

[@adamchurvis1]

My father was one of her writers around this time. When he later made his big move, she gave him a copy of her new book, "Phyllis Diller Tells All About Fang" with a big self-drawn caricature under her inscription wishing him good luck and insisting that "You can do it!" He knew and worked with so many of this era.

[@Senator107]

Quite amazing to see an early Phyllis Diller. You can see the sharpness.

[@gag1411]

Indeed

[@richardl.metafora4477]

She was almost by herself as a female standup comedienne, one of a handful of true TV pioneers. Her first couple jokes didn't go so well, but you can see her keep rolling. Very tough being 'herself' as a contestant and then jumping into the standup persona. TV debut of a gigantic star.

[@beforgiven9055]

Yes, "I'm sure I'd be doing better if they were." ha ha. And then she just kept going! And... that's how it's done, folks!

[@Mthomas116-t1m]

Amazing, Phyllis lived a long life of 95 years, no surprise as she kept pursuing her dreams not hitting big until her late 40's!

[@christianpatriot7439]

How can you say she lived 95 years? No two parts of her were the same age.

[@truthntelling]

@@christianpatriot7439 Haha! She would SAY that!

[@lvelez1999]

Never too late to do anything. Only when we die. I'm 45 and just graduating college! Praising God

[@tracer740]

@@lvelez1999 - How so? He paid your tuition?

[@mattdeans9873]

The amazing thing is that she didn't know back then what a tremendous talent and trailblazer she would become.

[@jeffchacon5781]

This footage shows how beautiful and charming Phyllis Diller really was.

[@danielfoster8949]

Yes Jeff. I didn't realize how cute she was.

[@babyirene3188]

Charming. Very.

[@daniellove162]

Like Uma Thurman

[@src3360]

She is very charming, for sure

[@oriraykai3610]

I don't know how that painting on of the eyebrows so high got so popular, but it only worked on a small number of women. The rest look perennially surprised.

[@MrJafredderf]

Groucho brought her on. He rarely have comics a shot but he liked her act and there it is

[@acousticshadow4032]

Phyllis' bit was great. Self-made woman who always had my respect for carving out such a successful career.

[@WytZox1]

Arthur Godfrey once commented that when not doing her bizarre on stage personal Phyllis Diller was a fine looking classy lady. And despite her wild comedy character she always did a clean family/kid friendly act. ☺

[@112jungle]

Arthur Godfrey was my fathers astranged uncle. Arthurs little brother (my grandfather) was his little brother (babe), he was poor drunk low life that did not want to work from what I was told. Arthur paid all of his little brothers familys bills (hush money as not to hurt his fame) and would have no other contact with that side of the poor family.

[@jackie5046]

I.agree she was classy and attractive

[@tomjones5650]

Arthur Godfrey was also blind in one eye and couldn't see out of the other.....

[@xx-mreba-xx4051]

@@tomjones5650 and the ego can’t forget about that

[@michellelekas211]

Really good painter too.

[@YinzerTracy]

I'm 1/2 way through her biography and I can say her writing is 10x funnier than her stand up act. At one point she was married to an abusive husband (and crazy inlaws) and she had 5 children (one of them brain damaged). Despite this, she forged a career in writing funny advertising and radio copy. She was very much in demand. I'm not even done with the book yet and already like her MORE.

[@PoutinePete]

Can I borrow it when you're done?

[@roncantrell2836]

I’m 67 and I have a whole new appreciation for her. And what a great smile!

[@karenwise4176]

@@PoutinePete I get it when you're done 😃 👍

[@dkearl6827]

I’m third. All kidding aside, Many thanks for sharing this insight!

[@davidvollmar9029]

Yes. What a life.

[@AussieTVMusic]

Groucho knew how tough the gig is and endorsed her work. The guy is a legend.

[@jaelge]

Phyllus was absolutely brilliant and adorable.

[@dr.reidsheftalltruthinscie2007]

Think about this.. Phyllis had 5 children (with all that responsibility) and had been married to "Fang" for 18 years before she started her comedy career. Its really amazing when you think about it... It's never too late to go for it,,, Lovely lady and quite charming and intelligent...

[@MetaphysicalMusician]

Yes

[@DMEseter]

Whose that

[@andrewbuhman1066]

If you want something bad enough, you won't make excuses.

[@dr.reidsheftalltruthinscie2007]

@@andrewbuhman1066 Right on Andrew.

[@Mynamesalexa]

I loved The Pruitt's Of Southampton

[@jeffhawkes7856]

That something like this exists is world-shaking. It's frontline comedy history. So much was lost from 50s TV. But here we have a genius from one generation kidding around with a kooky housebound mom -- but she's also a genius-in-waiting. Great stuff.

[@sp2435]

She was brilliant

[@akrenwinkle]

This is the first and only time I've heard Phyllis's real voice, not the harsh cackle of the character she developed.

[@karenwoolsey1169]

A Krenwinkle I was waiting for her to tell Groucho her husbands name-Fang. But that might’ve come later.

[@DementedCaver]

@@karenwoolsey1169 She perhaps didn't want to push it too soon.....or more likely just hadn't thought that bit up yet. :D

[@heidirotbart4685]

Actually her voice was her voice. Her character was her voice.

[@GuantanamoBayBarbie2]

This is the first time I've seen her prior to plastic surgery.

[@ixlr8677]

cackle and laugh.

[@dogcatfamily2476]

What a gift this was. I had no idea this ever happened. I grew up in the 60s at Sat. Matinees watching her in silly movies and I just adored her. She was a part of my life for the next 40 years. Miss her. It was so warming and fulfilling to read 99% of the comments praising her talent, her breaking the female and comedic ceiling and she was truly beautiful, classy and way ahead of the times. Mrs Diller was so very clever. MY absolute favorite comedian of all time. R.I.P. trailblazer.⚡🎸⭐

[@rijadolela]

Groucho and Phyllis were wonderful entertainers an giants of their professions. The innuendos of their comedy were loaded with double meanings and were simply outstandingly hilarious!

[@curbozer5006]

Back in the early days, you had to be very sly with the innuendos....different times....in an interview, late in his life, he actually bemoans the blatant sex and swearing that was becoming so commonplace in the 70s....showing his age on this subject!...I like that nowadays comics can pretty much go wherever they want, without fear of censorship.

[@RexMundiarcadia]

this is so cool to see...the beginning of a long career..she was such a special person

[@ragemanchoo82]

So this was THEE career-launching appearance that we've always read about? I'm glad its on here, this is awesome!

[@susiemac2u]

So cute to see Phyllis not in character -- shy and sweet and apparently smitten with Groucho. But how hard to go from that casual chat into stand up.

[@warmowski]

susiemac2u Who wasn’t smitten with Groucho?

[@FoodiePunk]

You could tell he was an influence of hers, and he genuinely seemed smitten back, after he let her do a bit of her routine. He looked so pleased to actually be impressed, whilst stuck in his usual gameshow gig!

[@oriraykai3610]

He would have done well to hook up with her, because ANYONE would have been better than what he ended up with...

[@michaeljayklein500]

It's very interesting to see Phyllis Diller BEFORE she became Phyllis Diller! Bless Groucho for not chiming in with his almost insatiable habit of ad-libbing while she was doing her routine!

[@AllenMQuinn]

I think he saw potential in her the second she started her routine. She was definitely a trailblazer.

[@williamanthony9090]

That's because Groucho understood SHOW BUSINESS!

[@edwardsibley]

Groucho was a classy kind guy. I never liked his movies. I fell in love with him because of this show. The quickest comic mind ever.

[@curbozer5006]

I would put Robin williams ahead of him...but he was the quickest of his era.

[@Walterwhiterocks]

@@curbozer5006 And don't forget Jonathan Winters as well.

[@roncantrell2836]

That impressed me too

[@charliepreston6738]

My my, I am 62, here it it 2019. I've known of Phillis Diller since I was a kid. I never knew she was such a delightful young woman. What a Babe.

[@timslate9959]

Phyillis Diller don't care if she got $500.00 dollars . The whole world was introduced how talented and funny she was. The like we will miss. RIP

[@rehobothwell]

That smile of Groucho's face as He listened to a Phyllis diller routine.

[@FoodiePunk]

More importantly: He didn't start smiling till she started nailing her jokes! That was an ex Vaudevillian, giving her an inch of spotlight and watching her, run a mile with it. Fuddy duddy professional Groucho melted back into his old greasepaint moustache, for a minute!

[@johnt.randall9526]

u

[@patriciahuntoon6194]

?

[@esta1ful]

I clean forgot about her. Wasn’t she great? Groucho too. Oh, i long for the days when performers actually had talent! Now it’s all computer graphics boooo☹️

[@ulalaFrugilega]

Groucho was so sweet to Phyllis! What a darling he could be.

[@bethbartlett5692]

Wow - Phyllis, before her game! I met her - a beautiful lady - a fabulous witt!

[@hunglikeahamster3248]

+Beth Bartlett Minus the dress, I see her as a punk rocker with pink hair. Or a Florence + The Machine post-punker. Way cool look she had there.

[@bethbartlett5692]

That she did - she was way ahead of her time - and quite likeable!

[@stmichl9433]

HungLikeAHamster yeah, when you look at how most women dressed then, Phyllis was already kind of alternative, and was a bit rebellious in her style: the hair is already a bit pre-punk as you say : even the make up is edgy for back then, and her attitude is well ahead of her time, for a mom with 5 kids and a husband. She came from a poor background, took a shot with her career and it paid off big time. An amazing woman.

[@stephenwilliams944]

she had a magical smile and when performing great gags outfits and that laugh magic

[@deserthound2605]

"So the Russians are going to the moon and we're going to Australia?" LOL. Groucho was so damn clever.

[@rodh1404]

I live in Australia. The climate is better on the moon.

[@aussieray426]

@@rodh1404 not much atmosphere though

[@dedubh8016]

Phyllis Diller was one of kind. She was a very funny Lady. She used to make fun of her looks stating that she had sold her old nose to Carl Mauldin. Her stories about her husband Fang were were a real hoot. We loved her on the Dean Martin roasts....she is missed

[@joyceguthrie5551]

Read a fun saying of Phyllis Diller's: "Be nice to your kids, because they will pick your rest home." Raised 5 boys and was a late blooming famous "Comedy Queen". RIP Phillis Diller

[@thecursor1]

This is only time I've ever seen Phyllis Diller nervous. She's performing for one of the greatest comedians of all time and she looks incredibly relieved when Groucho seems to genuinely love her act.

[@ramonarowan5475]

Great !!!! 💖

[@TheRealDrJoey]

I think when she said, "If so I'd be doing better out here..." is when Groucho knew he was seeing something. Diller really developed her craft.

[@stellamercer1782]

Piles filler

[@DementedCaver]

She seemed nervous for about the first minute, then she seemed to shake that off and do splendidly. :D

[@kevykev38]

Wow Phyllis was so young. What a brilliant commedian

[@FenceThis]

Well, around 41

[@Rodin99]

She was already appearing at The Blue Angel! She was a true outrageous original, the ground breaker, and deserves more than the back handed compliments I keep hearing about her as a foot note to Joan Rivers.

[@MrSzdp]

Bob hope

[@rkyobo4344]

She was 100 times better than Joan Rivers! Love Phyllis!!!

[@kenhurley4441]

@@rkyobo4344 I can't do the math here,,,, but I agree!

[@SuperWolsey]

@@MrSzdp a footnote to Joan Rivers??? What fucker said THAT?!

[@Farrah300]

@@rkyobo4344 I agree thoroughly.

[@AllenMQuinn]

The quality on this for a 1950s show is incredibly clear.

[@rickburton1780]

LITTLE DID GROUCHO KNOW SHE WOULD BECOME ONE OF THE BEST COMEDIANS OF ALL TIME--WORLD FAMOUS!!

[@Senator107]

I think he had an inkling.

[@howard5992]

I think she was 40 or 41 when this aired. And it was just the start of her career.

[@Malouco]

Rick Burton I see her on the sidebar and eyebrows that crazy would hv no other options but comedy! Dang Gina

[@Malouco]

Howard Yep, meeting Groucho must hv been so inspirational she decided she would shoot for the stars.

[@hyzercreek]

Groucho knew, when she delivered the last joke about making it to LA, Groucho had a big smile and I'm sure he knew she would be a success and even said so.

[@StevePhil-qw4ep]

Groucho was obviously a good dude... he's looking out for a new comedian by getting her exposure and a few dollars

[@KDL861]

Steve Phil2010 Thank you Groucho!

[@i.m.7710]

He liked her! 😍😍😍😎😎😎

[@paystarbuzzy]

That explains what possessed him to go after the Rocket Guy so relentlessly. She KILLED it!

[@Tony-iu7sw]

Not many ppl know but Phyllis was her middle name. Her first name was Siff

[@originalhgc]

Groucho was a prince. Watch his appearances on Dick Cavett for a great time.

[@bandfromtheband9445]

Phyllis Diller became an incredible comedian out here in the clubs in San Francisco in the 1950's and 1960's! She was so shy here in this clip. She became OUTRAGEOUS!!! She was also one of the first celebrities to get a face-lift, that she chronicalled on television!

[@spookym123]

"I went to this analyst, he's helped me a great deal. In fact, I am so much better now that I get to sit up."

[@LordMarlle]

She instinctly knew she couldn't go from casual conversation into full blown comedy mode, and she still delivered. Talent

[@MrCranberries17]

She was definitely one funny lady.

[@jamesed4106]

One of her later in life jokes which I thought was hilarious: "Honey, if I get one more facelift I'll be sporting a goatee!"

[@Gremlins1957]

She was a great comedian and Groucho was one of the greatest comedians of the 20th century. And Phyllis was kind of cute then.

[@HNGamingOfficial]

This is how you do it. Straight to their faces! Internet trolls got nothin on Groucho!

[@Irish-Rose]

Stephen Chumley Groucho never made any woman feel like that. He was a wonderful, funny, kind man who was also intelligent , & extremely talented.

[@KoolHandJuke]

@@StephenChumley you're a real prize with women, I'll bet.

[@murieltainter5936]

@@StephenChumley Really nice language, another thing wrong with people today.

[@daveluttinen2547]

Phyllis Diller was also an extraordinary pianist. Her classical performance was technically advanced and suitable for show in the finest circles. She was always a favorite of mine; and if you recall, she nicknamed her husband "Fang."

[@chevydude658]

She was quite funny even then. I love Phyllis Diller and always have. We were always thrilled when she happened to appear on TV.

[@mojoworld1]

Prior to her appearance on the show Ms. Diller had been doing small venue and burlesque clubs mostly in San Francisco & surrounding Bay Area. Apparently Groucho liked Ms. Diller quite well who he offered some advice and tutelage . It is therefor no real surprise that they became friends later.

[@theresabraddock9310]

Gee I thought she looks beautiful and charming and a lovely voice!

[@nancyoakley4727]

And stylish

[@joe-vz6hx]

with all due respect, you need glasses. :)

[@nancyoakley4727]

@@joe-vz6hx With all due respect, you need to look beyond bimbo beauty.

[@ahmedzaher9161]

Not beautiful She is he =Transgeder 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂of 50'

[@theresabraddock9310]

@@ahmedzaher9161 you would know about transgender as you must be expert 🎃lol x infinity

[@brad349miller]

It's so strange to see her so conservative and reserved. KZbin is wonderful!

[@KasperKali]

Decent, civil, human, interaction. Groucho is as witty as they come, he's fast as lightning 🌩 Laughs are guaranteed with him 🤣

[@windchimeisland]

Phyllis was, no doubt, the target of the bullying of people who called her ugly growing up, as she still is today. She knew what she was facing when she put herself out there as a comic and, it must have hurt her feelings when she was cast in movies specifically for that reason; in the roll of a woman nobody wanted. But, she took all this and with it, became one of the most beloved comics in America, if not the world. Phyllis, Ian glad you were appreciated for your beauty, after all. I love you, Phyllis.

[@5HlNOBI]

Groucho was way ahead of his time

[@Johnny53kgb-nsa]

Groucho may have helped out Phyllis's carrier by allowing her to do her comedy routine.

[@TomBarrister]

Diller had played in San Francisco for a few years before trying the natiional scene. This show was the first the nationwide audience saw of her. After a few appearances on Jack Paar's show, she went back to local. It was Bob Hope who brought her into the public eye in some of his films in the 60s. Her career as a self-deprecating stand-up comic took off, and she never looked back. Diller was also an accomplished pianist and performed classical works on national TV.

[@jamesfeldman4234]

Phyllis had already made a name for herself among comedy insiders when this show was made in 1958. She made her first appearance at The Purple Onion Club in San Francisco in 1955 and she became an instant hit among locals. Groucho liked her and introduced her to TV audiences for the first time here. Later, in 1960, Ed Sullivan invited her on for her first appearance on his show in New York. That led to getting booked on Johnny Carson's show and a comedy career spanning scores of years.

[@joe-vz6hx]

the absolute queen of female stand-up comedians, a true pioneer and incredibly underrated, what a gem this video is, thanks very much

[@levijones9854]

So so soooo true

[@dmg7111]

WoW............... never heard Groucho mention Australia in voice or any of his books before, Gave me a HUGE Grin !!!!!!!!!!!!!!! BIG thanks 4 sharing !!!!!!

[@Mritalicsmine]

6:35 it's good to see a Phyllis Diller from the early days. It gives us inspiration to grow.

[@marjoriemargel1567]

I met Phyllis Diller once at a major hospital in the LA area many years ago. She was completely awesome as you would expect.lovely, kind , soul.

[@frankburns8946]

Can you see ANY TV show having such a long intro as this in today's world. Not much has happened in over 6minutes and today many people would switch off. Happy days! Groucho...was...of course...a Genius!

[@macmcleod1188]

ha! You'd still be watching commercials after the 45 second teaser intro. I hear cable companies are *actually* cutting commercials by 10% because even they realized they'd gone too far and were driving away non-streaming customers.

[@mabellsb]

I had the privilege of having Phyllis as a friend for many years. She was a comic genius and a wonderful person. What fun seeing this clip from the past. Interestingly enough, I also once met Groucho Marx!

[@CladriteRadio]

We'd love to hear more about your encounter with Groucho. Can you tell us about it?

[@rogermoore27]

I never saw any video of Groucho Marx before. He was good!

[@jogarretson6552]

I remember my mom and dad watching You Bet Your Life when I was a kid. I was only 9 years old when the episode with Phyllis Diller was on tv. I love that KZbin has the programs from the 50s and 60s. It brings back some wonderful memories for me.

[@gomphrena-beautifulflower-8043]

I’m enamored by one of my favorite icons of comedy - Phyllis Diller had no idea what a superstar she would become. She’s actually a very pretty lady with a self-deprecating attitude that made her super rich and successful. We’ll always love you and that trademark cigarette holder, Phyllis! RIP❤️

[@aidennewell4034]

Hello, How are you doing?

[@robertwilliams060]

@Hello there, how are you doing this blessed day?

[@roberttelarket4934]

I was lucky to be a teen in the 1960's to see when Phyllis came onto the scene!

[@billsmith5985]

Phyllis was living in Webster Groves, MO, a suburb of St. Louis, in the early fifties.My grandmother used to see her at the Laundromat on Big Bend.

[@alsiffer6725]

in the late fifties she did commercials on local TV for Old Judge coffee. she would dress up as Queen Elizabeth or a cowboy or once as a brain surgeon and she would talk about how great the coffee was. When she did the brain surgeon bit, when she drank the coffee to say how good it tastes - she forgot (or maybe intentionally) to pull down her surgical mask and drank the coffee through the mask. she then said Old Judge tastes good even strained through a surgical mask. she then took another drink without the mask. And then she said it tastes even better strained through the mask. She was hilarious. I miss her.

[@liljafamilyaccount7306]

My grandmother was from webster groove in st Louis, her and my grandfather lived there also in the 1950s.

[@MrVorpalsword]

Lucky Big Bend. or was that the spin-drier?

[@earlyraybonneville1762]

She once was babysitter for my ex who also lived in Webster Groves, MO.

[@davidmichels9454]

I'm from Webster groves. It's well known she had lived there

[@mariestreeting9145]

Looking at Groucho i think he could recognise her talent. She had a lovely face and what a smile.

[@Kelly-nm4kw]

Hello Maria, How are you doing?

[@videotrax]

Notice how some of her comedy is just somewhat beyond the audience.... hilarious!

[@curbozer5006]

She really was ahead of the curve...hell, she paved her own road!...She needs to be looked up to even more than she is...but I guess the SJW crowd might not approve of some of her self-put-downs...people are judgmental idiots these days!...oops, so am I!

[@KebabMusicLtd]

@@curbozer5006 She paved her own road? Did she own a bulldozer too?

[@buzzkill808raven2]

i felt her delivery was a bit too quick but that might just be due to nervousness. I'd be shitting the titanic if I had to do a comedy set in front of Groucho Fucking Marx!

[@rharvey2124]

@@buzzkill808raven2 I GET TO SIT UP NOW. That line of Diller's hilarious!!!!!!!

[@ViolettaD1485]

Took me a few seconds, but then I got it....

[@jamesten]

What a sweetheart.

[@rigidheddleweaving]

One of the best comediennes ever to grace the stage.

[@Zichronot]

LOL I always loved her and this is a rare view, before work on her face and her laugh is toned down ..

[@richardk2542]

Her act wasn't polished but you got a great sense of timing and delivery and I am sure many people in the audience knew that wasn't going to be the last time they saw her on TV. All the great ones left quite a path for the up and comers of today. Loved her throughout the years.

[@nancywenlock1833]

We went to see Phyllis Diller in Chicago when I was about 12. Amazing lady and hilariously funny!

[@Kelly-nm4kw]

Hello Nancy, How are you doing?

[@dr.reidsheftalltruthinscie2007]

What a treat; seeing Phyllis as she was starting out! with 5 kids, no less. What courage!

[@rachelm2041]

My two all-time favorites..Phyllis Diller and Groucho Marx. 😁

[@519djw6]

Obviously, the main interest in this clip is that Phyllis Diller was a relatively unknown comedienne in her very first appearance on national television. However, for those of you who criticize this appearance as being "sexist," I would recommend that you view Ms. Diller's extensive interview on the "Archive of American Television." In it, she talks about the tradition of the the "court jester," and the fact that the jester's comedy extended largely from his being misshapen. And indeed, this was Diller's stock-in-trade for most of her career. However, she also mentions that in the late 1970s she underwent a great deal of plastic surgery to enhance her physical appearance. And indeed, as you will see from this interview made only a few years before her death, she could easily have past as one of those "babes of yesterday," à la Janet Leigh or even Brigitte Bardot!

[@Gods2ndFavoriteBassPlyr]

She was definitely the manifestation of the philosophy - "Work with what you have".. If life gives you lemons.. make lemonade!. And she made millions of gallons of it. And if she had not... the world may have never known about her gift as a concert pianist or as a very accomplished artist. Rest in peace, Ms. Diller.

[@steventrosiek2623]

519DJW you are so cute!!!

[@AndrewVelonis]

I remember watching"The Phyllis Diller Show" in the 1960's. One of my faves. Fun to see her in this clip. Remember that laugh? It was uniquely hers.

[@kurtl8350]

She went at the top a few years after this. I used to love her performance. She developed a persona that others stole and rode to fame, most notably, Joan Rivers, but where Joan was just loud, Phyllis was full blown characterization using tone and timing to build and then deadpan the punchline.

[@michaelstacey8303]

That is so not true! Joan was by far better tha. Phyllis and she hardly copied her

[@spockboy]

Phyllis was awesome. RIP.

[@wytewillow00]

Never saw Phyllis before her full comedic part of her later life. This was a treat! It takes a very ugly heart and soul to say anyone’s appearances are “ugly”. Phyllis was not ugly, she had a very unique look.

[@colibri1]

And she dressed very stylishly back then. That chemise dress that the audience laughed at really was one of the latest things from Paris. so new, especially in being loose instead of fitted (it was also called a "sack dress"), that the audience wasn't used to it; that's why they laughed probably. Her haircut was very stylish for the time, too. Yeah, ugly isn't the word. In fact, her sharp features look good with 1950s fashions like this.

[@2011littleguy]

I met her in Miami where she was displaying her artwork at a gallery. I spoke with her for a couple of minutes. What an intelligent person! I was very impressed by her knowledge of many things and also impressed with her friendliness and willingness to chat with an 'ordinary person' - if you can call me that lol. She was a star, after all.

[@jojomcgee3430]

Great video! A legend in her early days of a long, successful career! A national treasure in the world of comedy!!!

[@OrchestrationOnline]

I love the look Groucho gives her at 8:04 - "hey, this kid has got some good material and great delivery!" He's having a great time, all the more special as he's helping a young comedian break through.

[@Irish-Rose]

OrchestrationOnline He was such a generous man! Loved Groucho, & of course Phyllis Diller, she was priceless.

[@bradster1708]

Well spotted! It was subtle but powerful.

[@jojomcgee3430]

I would love to see this show resurrected with a top modern day comic as host. WHO WOULD YOU CHOOSE AS HOST??????

[@bradster1708]

Jeff Jantzen, how about Norm MacDonald

[@curbozer5006]

@@Irish-Rose Check out Groucho being interviewed by Dick Cavett, on KZbin...Cavett worshipped Groucho....and asked him some great questions...he was elderly at the time, and his quick humor was becoming dulled, but he had a lot to say about current society, humor, etc.

[@justingantt9896]

She was the original "Valley Girl" when she said "like" several times in her routine

[@robinboyle5786]

I'm old enough to have seen Groucho's hilarious show. Plus I remember my parents deciding I was old enough to stay up and watch Red Skelton. And George Burns and Gracie Allen and more. So many funny people in the 50s!

[@Kelly-nm4kw]

Hello Robin, How are you doing?

[@SpeegBJ]

Oh I love this more than I can even say. LIma's own Phyllis. I'm from Cincinnati and my mother was an instant fan of Diller's once and forever. The funniest woman since Lucy......She will be missed......

[@gaymichaelis7581]

Love this with two of the best comics in the past! Groucho Marx and Phyllis Diller! Love this old show with Groucho as the host! Loved how he would ask them questions about their lives and make funny jokes about that! He was so good at that! He was one of a kind, along with Phyllis Diller! Phyllis Diller and I shared the same birthday ‘s, July 17! She and Groucho were both great characters!!!

[@igotbandaids]

My favorite with Phyllis Diller was when she performed with Bob Hope. What fun characters!

[@Kelly-nm4kw]

Hello Lyn, How are you doing?

[@MrRhino1961]

What a treat to see Phyllis Diller at the beginning of her career.

[@MrRoadcrankr]

Six minute mark to get a brief bit of Phyllis Diller's routine. She actually impressed Groucho! You can learn much about her with a few minutes of internet research. Like that she was quite the pianist. And did not truly start her entertainment career until into her forties. Her standup bits found on youtube are hilarious!

[@johnhiram1207]

WOW just amazing! Groucho was clearly impressed with her.