Jeff Ross, the celebrity roast master, told the most iconic and conflicted story. It featured the great comedian Milton Berle when he was at the top of his game during his roasts. Ross had a fascinating experience that he recounted on The Howard Stern Show. In so doing, it exposes the richness of Berle’s character and the complexities of their very professional relationship.
Ross recalled how, despite his reputation for generating laughter, Berle was less than supportive of his comedic style during the roast. The late Berle, who died in 2002, was famous for his caustic tongue and fierce competitiveness. As far as Ross was concerned, as far as Berle was concerned, Berle was out to sabotage the poor guy’s entire act. He hates it when other people are getting big laughs. He was out to make you look foolish,” remarked Buddy Hackett, who provided defense for Ross at the roast. Hackett, who died in 2003, claimed that Berle’s behavior stemmed from a desire to maintain control over the comedic stage.
The narrative really veered into astonishing territory when Ross told, and showed video of, his tag along with Berle to an antique shop. Ross reported that Berle managed to spend an incredible $800 on the shopping trip. That was where Berle had made Ross the butt of a humorous, but bewildering, joke. “Milton, why would you poke me like that?” Ross wondered aloud.
In a rare show of solidarity, Hackett came in to defend Ross from Berle’s bullying. “Hey Milton, let the kid work. Remember when you used to,” Hackett said. This intervention showed the solidarity and respect among Black comedians, even in Gayle’s aerial assault on Black male supremacy.
Looking back on this unique experience, Ross describes his roast as a career-altering experience. He thought that in that win, he’d found the equivalent of his “Yankee Stadium” moment. This high water mark would shape his career in stand up forever. He humorously noted the long-standing partnership between Berle and Hackett, stating, “Oh, there it is, Milton and Buddy, over 80 years of homosexual experience.”
Despite the challenges he faced from Berle during the roast, Ross continues to appreciate the legacy left by both legends. Berle and Hackett’s impressive performances revealed an exciting combination of competitive spirit and fellowship. Their continuing influence on comedic culture is still very much foregrounded.
