Jackie Gleason, born Herbert Walton Gleason Jr. on February 26, 1916, in Brooklyn, New York, was an American comedian, actor, writer, and composer, famously known as "The Great One." Gleason's early life was marked by hardship, including his father's abandonment and the death of his older brother. Despite these challenges, Gleason developed a passion for performing, influenced by his frequent visits to vaudeville shows.

Gleason's career began in vaudeville and nightclubs, where he honed his comedic talents. He made his Broadway debut in 1940 with "Keep Off the Grass" and later appeared in shows like "Follow the Girls" and "Along Fifth Avenue." His television breakthrough came in 1950 with the DuMont network's "Cavalcade of Stars," which led to "The Jackie Gleason Show" on CBS. It was here that he introduced iconic characters, including Ralph Kramden from "The Honeymooners," which became a beloved television series.

In addition to his television success, Gleason enjoyed a secondary career in music, producing bestselling "mood music" albums. His first album, "Music for Lovers Only," set a record for its long stay on the Billboard Top Ten Charts. Gleason also appeared in notable films, including "The Hustler" and the "Smokey and the Bandit" trilogy.

Gleason's personal life included three marriages and two children. He passed away on June 24, 1987, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, leaving behind a legacy as a multifaceted entertainer who captivated audiences with his humor, music, and larger-than-life personality.