Harry Einstein
An American comedian and writer, usually known by the name Harry Parke, but who was variously credited as Harry Einstein, Harold Einstein, Harry "Parkyakarkus" Einstein, Parkyakarkus and Parkyarkarkus. He became famous as the character Parkyakarkus (or Parkyarkarkus) — park your carcass; that is, sit down — who garbled Greek on Eddie Cantor's radio show and appeared in eleven films using this name from 1936 to 1945.
In the golden age of radio comedy, few personalities were as distinctive and beloved as Harry Einstein, better known by his stage name Parkyakarkus. A master of dialect comedy and a pioneering radio performer, Einstein carved out a unique niche in entertainment history through his memorable Greek character and quick-witted performances.
Early Life and Boston Beginnings
Born on May 6, 1904, in Boston, Massachusetts, Harry Einstein emerged from a working-class immigrant family. His parents, Sarah Klayman and Charles Einstein, represented the classic immigrant experience - Sarah from a Russian Jewish family and Charles an Austrian immigrant who ran an importing business. Einstein's early career path was far from comedy; he initially worked as a newspaper reporter and then transitioned into advertising, managing radio departments for local furniture companies. During the mid-1920s, Einstein began exploring comedy as a side passion. He performed comedy routines at parties and gained local popularity on Boston radio station WEEI as "The Bad Boy from a Good Home". His friend, bandleader Joe Rines, played a crucial role in encouraging Einstein to pursue comedy professionally, ultimately leading to the creation of his iconic Greek character Nick Parkyakarkus.
Rise to National Prominence
Einstein's breakthrough came in 1934 when he first appeared on Eddie Cantor's radio show. His Greek character Nick Parkyakarkus was an instant hit, characterized by a distinctive dialect and comedic persona that resonated with audiences nationwide. Throughout the mid-to-late 1930s, he became a regular performer on Cantor's program and also appeared on the Al Jolson Show. His popularity led to film appearances, including roles in movies like Strike Me Pink (1936) and The Life of the Party (1937). Interestingly, Einstein was so committed to his character that he unsuccessfully attempted to legally change his name to Parkyakarkus, with a judge denying his request.
Radio Stardom and Personal Life
In 1945, Einstein launched his own radio show, Meet Me at Parky's, featuring his beloved Nick Parkyakarkus character. The show ran for three seasons, with Einstein writing most of the scripts himself. Behind the scenes, Einstein was building a family, marrying Thelma Leeds in 1937 and fathering four sons, including future comedians Albert Brooks and Bob Einstein. However, Einstein struggled with health issues that limited his mobility and professional opportunities. After his radio show ended, his appearances became increasingly sporadic.
Tragic Final Performance
On November 23, 1958, during a Friars Club roast, Einstein delivered what would become his final performance. After his monologue, he turned to Milton Berle and said, "Yeah, how come?" before collapsing. Despite immediate medical efforts, he was pronounced dead at 1:20 a.m. on November 24. His death, occurring literally mid-performance, became a poignant moment in entertainment history.
Works and Appearances
Radio
- Eddie Cantor Show (1934-1930s)
- Al Jolson Show (mid-1930s)
- Meet Me at Parky's (1945-1947)
Film
- Strike Me Pink (1936)
- New Faces of 1937 (1937)
- The Life of the Party (1937)
- She's Got Everything (1937)
- Out of This World (1945)
Television
- Playhouse 90 (1958, episode appearance)
Parkyakarkus remains a significant figure in early radio comedy, remembered not just for his humor, but for his pioneering dialect comedy and the lasting comedic legacy he passed on to his sons.
