The Honeymooners - The Jackie Gleason Show (CBS TV, 1966-1970), Jackie Gleason "Ralph Kramden" Signatur...

Description

The Honeymooners - The Jackie Gleason Show (CBS TV, 1966-1970), Jackie Gleason "Ralph Kramden" Signature Bus Driver's Ensemble. There are some television characters that become so ingrained with the performer's personality that the two become almost inextricable from one another. For some this is a curse, for others a blessing. For Jackie Gleason, it was an opportunity. An opportunity to continue reinventing his comedy routine, to perfect his monologue, and to experiment with his love of multi-format entertainment. Though he performed as the surly New York City bus driver Ralph Kramden often and consistently since its earliest conception in his first sketch comedy program, Cavalcade of Stars (DuPont, 1949-1952), Gleason was constantly reworking the character, and the setting in which he existed, experimenting with bigger sets, live audiences, musical numbers, and impressive guest stars that adapted each iteration of the show to its current era. And of course, when the show moved taping from New York to Miami during the 1960s, Gleason brought the beloved Ralph Kramden with him.

Presented here is a vintage original complete (3) piece Ralph Kramden (Jackie Gleason) bus driver's ensemble from the 1966-1970 iteration of the program, consisting of (1) light blue zip-front polyblend jacket with 2- chest pockets and peak lapels, lined in purple satin and retaining internal Western Costume Co. label typed, "Jackie Gleason" "2675-1", (1) pair of matching light blue flat-front slacks with zipper and hook-and-eye closure, retaining internal Western Costume Co. label typed, "Jackie Gleason" "2675-2" and Western Costume Co. stamp to waistline, and (1) matching denim-colored bus driver's hat with pin badge reading "Gotham Bus Company / Kramden / 30". Exhibiting mild production wear and age, presenting extremely well, and accompanied by a white dress shirt, black tie, and black shoes to complete the look for display purposes. Additionally, Stewart took great pride in displaying his collection and had many custom-built mannequins in the likeness of the character made for his costumes. This lot includes one of those mannequins, which is in used and well-loved condition and will require special shipping. The option is yours if you would like to receive the mannequin. Comes with a COA from Heritage Auctions. From The Stewart Berkowitz Television Treasures Collection.

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