14. Milton Berle
Known affectionately as “Mr. Television,” Milton Berle’s slapstick humor and larger-than-life persona helped launch the golden age of TV entertainment. As host of Texaco Star Theater, Berle drew massive audiences and proved television’s power as a national medium. His quick gags, outrageous costumes, and audience rapport made him a household name. Berle’s pioneering presence was instrumental in establishing TV as America’s favorite source of comedy and variety.
