ART CARNEY
Oscar-winning actor Art Carney signed this contract in 1954, agreeing to record eight record sides for Columbia Records' Childrens' [sic] Record Department.
Contract signed "Art Carney" and by a Vice President of Columbia Records, Inc. Pencil notations in top right corner. 8 pages, 8¼x11, bound with 1 staple, two binder holes in top edge, partial carbon copy, on Columbia Records, Inc. letterhead. April 14, 1954. Addressed to Mr. Art Carney c/o William McCaffery, New York City. By signing this six-month contract, Carney agreed to record a minimum of eight 78-rpm record sides for Columbia Records' Childrens' [sic] Record Department, with a one-year extension option for MCA. The contract also details his royalties. Carney appeared in a number of moves and TV shows in 1954, including The Jackie Gleason Show. Distinguished actor Carney (1918-2003, born Arthur William Matthew Carney in Mount Vernon, New York) began as a comedian and gradually became a sidekick for others. While serving in World War II, Carney was hit by shrapnel (leaving him with a slight limp) during the Normandy landing. After the war, he found much work on Broadway, both as a dramatic and comic actor. Carney is best known for his role as Ed Norton, Jackie Gleason's pal in the classic 1950s TV sitcom The Honeymooners. Later, personal problems caused him to leave the Broadway run of The Odd Couple. Carney soon returned to work as an actor, going on the win the Best Actor Academy Award for his performance as a 72-year-old in Harry and Tonto (1974). He also won several Emmy Awards for his work on TV. Lightly toned and creased. Light dent in right edge. Lightly discolored at top edge of page 1. Lightly rounded, worn and creased corners. Staple is rusted. Otherwise in fine condition.