X

Join or Sign In

Sign in to customize your TV listings

Continue with Facebook Continue with email

By joining TV Guide, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy.

Charles Nelson Reilly Biography

Birth Name:Charles Nelson Reilly

Birth Place:The Bronx, New York City, New York, United States

Profession Actor, Soundtrack, Director, Writer, Art department, Music department

Fast Facts

  • Was trained in acting under the tutelage of drama coach Uta Hagen at the HB Studio
  • Before entering acting, he wanted to pursue a career as an opera singer by studying music at the Hartt School of Music
  • Was widely recognized for the campy persona he portrayed on game shows
  • Would often take on the role of witty, eccentric characters
  • Appeared in the original production of the Pulitzer-prize-winning play "How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying․"
  • Once worked as an understudy to Dick Van Dyke in a Broadway production
  • Wore a full toupée for over 20 years due to being completely bald for most of his career

Awards

  • 1970Primetime Emmy-Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in Comedy: nominated
  • 1998Primetime Emmy-Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series: nominated
  • 1999Primetime Emmy-Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series: nominated