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tony and me
a story of friendship

by Jack Klugman with Burton Rocks



      Remember the classic television comedy "The Odd Couple" with Jack Klugman and Tony Randall? Did you ever wonder if the actors' behavior mimicked their television alter egos? In tony and me, author Jack Klugman reveals how their acting entangled their private lives and turned into a true friendship.

Tony and me is not a celebrity "tell all" book; rather, it is a story of friends and the difficulties of life. Klugman's path to acting is certainly unusual. How many well-known actors escape loan sharks by enrolling in acting classes? Luckily, for him and his fans, Klugman finds his place in acting. Eventually his career crosses with Tony Randall. Klugman recounts Randall's eccentricities, dedication, and brilliance in acting. Their friendship starts with complementing each other's acting style, and it continues through personal losses. Klugman wins his fight with throat cancer. But the loss of his voice abruptly ends his career. Randall, however, did not see any limitations and pushes Klugman back into acting. Klugman credits Randall with saving his life. Years later, Klugman remained at Randall's side when he was dying. The depth of their friendship gradually makes Klugman more open to sharing and loving those around him.

Tony and me is a sincere, humorous, and loving tribute to Randall. Klugman clearly admires Randall's acting abilities and personal attributes. An interview with Randall's widow, Heather, shows another private side of Randall. Photographs of Klugman and Randall showcase their personal and professional lives. The book includes a short DVD of hilarious outtakes. I found myself laughing and missing the theme music of "The Odd Couple". Tony and me is an enjoyable read for those wanting more insight into Klugman and Randall's unwavering friendship.

The Book

Good Hill Press
August 31, 2005
Hardcover with DVD
0-9768303-0-2
Non-fiction / Memoir
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Excerpt
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The Reviewer

Jennifer Akers
Reviewed 2006
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© 2006 MyShelf.com