Jack Albertson was an actor, singer, and dancer. He is best remembered for playing John Cleary in the 1968 Ulu Grosbard-directed drama film ‘The Subject Was Roses.’ His performance in the film earned him an ‘Oscar’ for ‘Best Supporting Actor.’ He is also remembered for playing Joe in the 1971 musical fantasy film ‘Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory’ and Ed Brown on ‘NBC’ network's situational comedy series ‘Chico and the Man.’ Apart from films and television series, Albertson has also performed in vaudeville, American burlesque, Broadway plays, and radio. In 1977, he was honored with a star on the ‘Hollywood Walk of Fame’ for his contributions to the TV industry. Albertson passed away in 1981 at the age of 74 when he lost his battle to colorectal cancer.
