Entertaining Don Rickles Roasts Bob Hope Leaving Dean Martin In Tears Of Laughter

Feb 20, 2020 by apost team

"The Dean Martin Celebrity Roast" is a legendary program in American television history. Running from 1974 to 1984, Martin and his comedian friends would invite Hollywood’s elite for a night of drinks, jokes, and playful ribbing.

While many might dread being the subject of a roast, it was a mark of honor to be insulted by Martin and his hilarious crew. One of the most well-known installments of the show featured Martin and company roasting Bob Hope, who was then a living legend for his storied career in comedy and frequent appearances at USO shows.

Among Hope’s roasters were astronaut Neil Armstrong, Ronald Reagan, who was then the governor of California, and comedian Don Rickles, reports The Mix. While all the celebrities in attendance got several jabs in at Hope’s expense, Rickles’ performance became remembered as the standout for the night.

Introducing Rickles, Martin told those in attendance that he hoped that their rabies shots were up to date as Rickles took the stage. Quick-witted and confident in his gut-busting remarks, Rickles immediately launched into Hope, saying that the only reason he was present is because he was old and washed-up.

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While getting numerous hits on Hope, Rickles spent an equal amount of time roasting his fellow roasters. When Rickles made fun of Martin’s age and suggested that he had already had too much to drink, Martin could be seen wiping away tears of laughter from his eyes. Next turning to Reagan, Rickles hinted at disappointment that the then-governor hadn’t gone through with his planned retirement as Rickles said that he was fed up with him.

As Rickles’ time came to an end, he got more serious. While enjoying a laugh at everyone's expense, he told his friends that they were all good people. Turning to Hope, Rickles said that he was delighted to know him, and that America loves him. As Rickles left the podium, he got a huge applause from the audience as they struggled to stop laughing.

What do you think of how Rickles roasted Hope on Martin’s show? Have you ever been the subject of a roast?