Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Joe Franklin
1926 - 2015
Joe Franklin
1926 - 2015
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1926
DIED
2015
Joe Franklin Obituary
He died Saturday of cancer, which he had had for a few years, longtime producer and friend Steven Garrin said.
Franklin often is credited with developing the standard TV talk show format, sitting behind a desk while interviewing want-to-be celebrities, minor celebrities and the occasional bona fide celebrity.
The host of "The Joe Franklin Show" started in TV in 1950. By the early 1990s, he often said, he had chatted with more than 300,000 guests, including Marilyn Monroe, Liza Minnelli and Madonna. But the notables often had to share air time on his low-budget show with a tap-dancing dentist or a man who whistled through his nose.
Garrin recalled how Franklin, who was parodied by Billy Crystal on "Saturday Night Live," hired a young Bette Midler as his studio singer and gave a chance on his show to every up-and-comer trying to make it big: Bruce Springsteen, Woody Allen and Dustin Hoffman among them.
"He was a wonderful guy," Garrin said Sunday. "He gave everybody an opportunity."
Garrin said he remembered how Pacino, after he became a Hollywood movie star, told Franklin in a private meeting: "Joe, why don't you interview me now that I'm somebody? You interviewed me when I was nobody."
After Franklin's TV show ended in 1993, he worked on his late-night radio show. He continued to work even after he developed cancer, doing celebrity interviews on the Bloomberg Radio Network.
Tuesday was the first scheduled broadcast Franklin had missed in more than 60 years, said Garrin, who worked with him for 20 of those years, booking all his interviews and recording the shows in his studios in Times Square between 1991 and 2010.
KAREN MATTHEWS, Associated Press
Copyright © 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
75 Entries
Ed Baykowski
March 25, 2024
As a young child, I watched Joe's TV show during the 1950's when it consisted of
Star interviews, a silent movie from his vast collection, or playing a record of his favorite celebrities. When he appeared several times at the Evergreen Senior Center in Colonia, NJ, my lifelong wish was finally fulfilled as well as the photo taken of us together. Joe, you were the best and so missed.
Ed Baykowski
Lydia Marie Marino
June 13, 2015
RIP sweet prince of a man .. U will b missed by many ., prayers n condolonces to ur family n friends n followers .,
FUN MEMORIES
BONNIE BLAKE
June 13, 2015
YOU WERE THERE FOR ME 8 MONTHS AGO WHEN MY HUSBAND DIED AND NOW I HAVE LOST YOU MY FRIEND. REST IN PEACE
How you can show support
June 10, 2015
John 11:33 says: "When Jesus saw her weeping and the Jews who had come with her weeping and groaning, he groaned within himself and became troubled." Jesus expressed tears when his friend Lazarus died, he knows how it feels to lose a dead loved one and he understands what you and your family are experiencing. May this bring you and your family comfort in this time of need. cjp (fla.)
Brian Glubok
April 3, 2015
A truly amazing individual. Kind, funny, present. Totally accessible. - Brian Glubok (NY)
john de maria
February 22, 2015
joe franklin was a great tv host and he we be missed.helper to joe
Ingrid Leacock
February 21, 2015
Joe Franklin was a friend..He was a guest on my show Cable Magazine ...The Ingrid Leacock Show ..Joe was nicknamed " Mr Television" Talk show gave valuable Television exposure thousands of aspiring Talented Young People RIP Joe you were the greatest
.The Television world has lost a great talent and a wonderful human being.. Ingrid Leacock
February 19, 2015
So sorry to hear about Joe's passing. My husband and I shared a love of show biz nostalgia and memorabilia and vaudeville sheet music and Joe came to our home a few times looking through our collection, and even bought some. I was a guest on Joe's show in Secaucus years ago promoting a book I coauthored about how to be a working actor and he was so relaxed and casual and made everyone feel like a star. A real character who was always there to help the less fortunate. He will be missed and remembered. Mari Lyn Henry-Varnay
lenny baron
February 12, 2015
RIP JOE, You were the Sunshine of many Peoples Lives...So helpful and caring about others! There will never be another You!! God Bless! Lenny Baron
February 10, 2015
Joe Franlin you will be missed Steven
February 9, 2015
My sincere condolences are with the family for your loss. May your treasured memories and the drawing close to God in prayer help comfort you in your time of sorrow. Jeremiah 29:12,13
Larry Russell
February 4, 2015
Joe, I just want to thank you for being a good friend; someone who was good to my family and someone who bought me lots of opportunities to make money. I thank you for that. There wasn't a time when you wouldn't come to the phone when you heard it was me, or meet me on the street if I asked or was available in your most current office to share a cup of coffee and muffin. To me you will always be known as the most down to earth person I've ever met this business. God bless you and your family. I still quote your jokes. One of them was: I'm so old I remember when the Dead Sea was only sick! Carry on Joe! Yes I do hold you close. Lv, Larry Russell
Brenda
February 4, 2015
Joe Franklin became a success when he gave unknown talents an opportunity to prove that they, too, could become successful. Great job, Joe! I hope the promise of Paradise with perfect health and endless life prove to be both comforting and appealing to loved ones Joe leaves behind. Cherish the memories!
February 3, 2015
Watch Joe memorial tonight tuesdayMNN.ORG 12 midnite Community channel #1
Jeffrey C. Hogue
February 3, 2015
Joe Franklin, wasn't merely a great man, a great friend, and a living legend. He was an American Institution.
He always had a kind word, and a wonderful smile for everyone he met, and every life he touched! Knowing him for 20 years, was one of the highlights of my life. I miss him immensely.
"Uncle Joe" until we meet again on the other side, you will continue to live in my heart and memories!
May God Bless You and your family with just one-half the love you gave away!
I owe you more than I could ever begin to repay..
If I had 3 more lifetimes and another 10,000 days!
Your Friend, For Life Plus Ten,
-"Doc"
CHRISSY LABOY
February 2, 2015
Wow! Reading so many messages seems as if so many of us could say the same! He was quite a man! I could go on saying so many things.... So many memories that appears many of us share similarly.
May he RIP and be with the Angels! Gosh I'll miss him so much! Will NEVER be the same walking into that building where his infamous ofc. Resided! Forever in my ??! My dear friend! Bless your soul! Miss you! You've had such an impact on me that I'll never forget!!!
Chrissy L.
Cynthia Soroka-Dunn
February 2, 2015
I will miss talking to you, Joe. I remember going to your office, meeting you at your restaurant and remember the fun book signing in your comedy room. RIP. You will live on in my mind and in many others. You were a True gentleman. Cynthia Soroka-Dunn
Al Martin
February 2, 2015
Joe I will miss you so much. My heart aches to know I have no one To call to talk about Henry Burr, Irving Kaufman, Eddie Cantor, and other great stars. Keep me close, and rest in peace, friend. You were the greatest that ever lived. I love you Joe.
January 31, 2015
RIP JOE , a dear friend. A NY broadcasting Legend To be continued
ROSE SIMON
January 31, 2015
I WAS GRATEFULFOR THE WONDERFUL FRIENDSHIPTHAT JOE HAD WITH MY NEPHEW JOHN DE MARIA
Harry Seddon
January 31, 2015
I loved Joe like a father, and he made me feel special, as he did with everyone who knew him. I met him through a mutual friend about 10 years ago and over the last few years, became very close, always spending time in his office, bringing him a cup of tea, picking up his phone , and looking forward to hearing his stories and jokes; feeling I was part of his T.V. show, which really never stopped if you were lucky enough to be in that room. He always encouraged me to keep doing what I loved(acting), and helped me whenever possible. If I brought a tape of something I had done in film or TV, he would say, " let's watch it", even if the phone was ringing. His always bright, sweet , kind , and friendly personality was a breath of fresh air in the usually tough atmosphere of show business. Boy, I know I'll miss him so much, but I also know, an endless amount of others will as well. I'll see you when that time comes, Joe.
January 30, 2015
May your memories of Joe bring you peace.
Lisa Weiner
January 30, 2015
To Joe Franklin,
You were a fantastic talk show host. My prayers go to your family and friends. Lisa Weiner
Brenda
January 30, 2015
Joe was a publicist's dream, starting a new client on the unpaved road to possible fame. Always so gracious and complimentary and kind to every guest "celebrity" client I booked....even if he was not so quite sure what they did....or even who they were!
And stepping foot into his office, and only one foot at the risk of a visit to the orthopedist, was a great showbiz adventure into the land of 8x10 glossies,
zillion books, LPs, and left over bagels.
You were one of a kind...the best kind....be blessed and rest in comfort.
Brenda - New York, NY
Michael & Barbara Ross
January 30, 2015
My husband, Michael Ross had the good fortune to be on Joe's show. He knew him for over 60 years and I, for 45. He was a kind, generous and supportive man and everytime you met him or spoke to him he never forgot who you were. Michael had a call from him about 2 weeks ago where he wanted to introduce a Producer who had a show but then he got sicker and that's the only time it never happened.
He never missed any of our Openings and we visited him in his office many times.
RIP, YOU ARE AN ICON! Maybe God will call you at 4:02. All of us who spoke to him on the phone should remember that.
BARBARA & MICHAEL ROSS
January 30, 2015
So sorry about the passing of Mr Joe Franklin. May the family have peace and God's blessings of loving and supportive family and friends. (Ps 147: 3)
Linda Adelman Gintel
January 29, 2015
My first job in NYC (1972) was working at WOR-TV as a PA for the Joe Franklin Show! It was a time I shall never forget. I had just moved to the city from San Antonio, Texas and knew nothing!
I was assigned to get his notes in order before taping his TV show. OMG! His desk was legendary, piled sky high with papers and books and yet he knew where everything was. Amazing.
He treated everyone with respect from Gloria Swanson to Mrs. Miller! He was never in a bad mood and never not prepared. He would walk into the studio as his theme song was playing and never missed a beat.
What a great man and kind soul. I am sorry I did not stay in touch with him.
He's gone and I will miss him
Barbara Assante
January 29, 2015
Joe Franklin was a great friend. I loved spending time with him. He made me laugh. I love you Joe and will miss you so much. MMWWWAAAAA Barbara
Jonathan Braun
January 29, 2015
Joe Franklin was a show business giant and a wonderful friend and colleague. As a young journalist, I was privileged to have been a guest on his remarkable TV talk show -- a true talk show -- about 30 times. Years later, I was president of the public company named for him. It's difficult to believe he's no longer with us, answering his phone, chatting about show business greats or the events of the day, preparing his radio segment. He was one of those rare individuals who seemed immune to age and illness. A great person, great American, great New Yorker! May his memory be a blessing.
January 29, 2015
THANKS JOE, REST IN PEACE
January 28, 2015
It was my pleasure to spend time with Joe long ago as his assistant. Through the years we remained friends and I would see him periodically or talk on the phone now and then. He will always be in my memories of the best in his field. We will all miss you Joe. RF
January 28, 2015
Cherish the memories! God will open his hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing. Psalm 145:16
Paul Woods
January 28, 2015
R.I.P. Mr. Franklin ; Great Man & Great Show . Personally met him ; with Lou Albano ; at Police Head Quarters at the 1992 NYPD PBA Mr. New York's Finest Body Building Contest ; sponsored by his show . He presented me the champions trophy when I won the contest .
January 28, 2015
May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.
January 28, 2015
You were the best Joe! I'll miss you already! tommy g
tony de maria
January 28, 2015
he was a great man and radio and tv icon. we will miss him
A FAN
January 28, 2015
R.I.P.
Lance YAEGER
January 27, 2015
It was a sincere privilege to have known Joe Franklin. He was so kind and warm and down to earth when we spoke. There was everything you liked about the man. He was loved by all. Its safe to say that there will never be anyone else quite like him!!!
Joe's book "A Gift for People" A great read!!
Kenny Ellis
January 27, 2015
Joe, Thanks for having me on your show back in 1978. I loved being able to sing "A Gift for People" which your friend Martin Kalmanoff wrote and dedicated to you. You were truly gift for us all.RIP
Jeff Ruthizer
January 27, 2015
Love you Joe. Truly one of a kind. Over the decades since the RKO years at WOR TV you stayed true to yourself and our friendship. RIP.
L. T.
January 27, 2015
So sorry for your loss you can look foward to s time at Isa.33: 24 when everyone will experience this.
Howard Helfgott
January 27, 2015
Wow Joe ! Just saw you again 3 weeks ago, You were so Happy I stopped in, made me feel good too, n I said it was a Thrill to know you ! Well Say Hi to Bernie Schwartz / Tony Curtis, Marilyn Monroe n All the others you helped out over the Years, down Memory Lane...Will truly Miss you my friend
Howard H. NJ, NYC USA
January 27, 2015
The world has lost an outstanding talent and a gentle man. He gave many people the opportunity to voice their opinions. He was also responsible for entertaining many, many people with his excellent approach to life. RIP Joe--An Admirer
Marie Mathis
January 27, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Allyssa Allison
January 26, 2015
You will be missed Joe. You were such a kind soul, always making tine to talk to me and listen. You were always a great listener. Thank you for giving me that chance. I really loved being a guest on your show..We will miss you immensely. Alyssa
January 26, 2015
I was a 21 yr-old in 1963 when Joe asked me to appear on his "Memory Lane" TVer to talk about Laurel & Hardy and to play excerpts from my recorded phone calls to him. Since then, Joe has been so nice to me, always saying "I'm proud of you, Richie." He was good to so many people. I'll miss him.
+Metropolitan Ephraem Bertolette
January 26, 2015
"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints."-Psalm 116:15. A true celebrity who will live on in TV history. May he rest in Peace.
January 26, 2015
May the family of Mr.Franklin have peace from God the Father and The Lord Jesus Christ. Sincerely, Clara (North Carolina)
Muffy
January 26, 2015
Not just the end of an era, but the end of an eon. My condolences to his family, friends and coworkers, and to all he touched along the way.
Schmecky
January 26, 2015
I imagine a recent interview went something like this:
Joe: I'm here with the author of the most popular book of all-time.
God: Thank you, Joe. Nice to see you.
Joe: What was it W.C. Fields said? "I'd rather be in Philadelphia?"
God: Ah yes, Bill Fields. He's not here.
Joe: People ask, when are you going to write a sequel, right?
God: I've heard that.
Joe: And?
God: Can't find the right editor.
Joe: To paraphrase I.B. Singer, "The best editor I ever had was the waste basket."
God: Hoffman's soda, my friend?
Robin
January 26, 2015
Will miss you joe. You always had time to talk to me. You and Arthur are now sharing a bottle of wine and talking show business. God bless!
January 26, 2015
Gosh, I don't know quite where to begin! This man was golden as far as those of us just starting out in New York Theatre were concerned. I had the privilege of appearing on his shows in 1973, 1976, and 1978 when I was producing three Off and Off Off Broadway shows. For one of those interviews I brought the great jazz singer, Marge Dodson, with me. He adored her! And, for another of those appearances, I brought the actress and singer, Suzanne Henry, and, this is a true story: Suzanne said something really, really funny during our interview and Joe looked at her, stoned face, and said, "I'll do the jokes." Well, we just broke up after that! He did such a great service to so many of us over the years, especially when we were little more than neophytes in "the business."
God speed, Joe, and thank you so much for everything you did for so very many of us! You won't be forgotten!
Evelyn Powers,
Former member
League of Off Broadway Producers
and Theatre Owners
Bloomington, Indiana
Gloria S
January 26, 2015
Oh how I admired Mr. Franklin. As a little girl I was glued to the television when he was on so I could get a glimpse of interesting people and priceless film clips. To this day, I turn with favor to pre- and early talkies as better slices of history and art! Thank you and always my prayers.
Mrs. P
January 26, 2015
It was wonderful how his focus was on giving new talent exposure. What a fine example for those in a position to help others (inexperienced ones) to follow. I hope to meet him in Paradise.
RW
January 26, 2015
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
January 26, 2015
May the love of God smile upon the family at this time,and you be reminded of the wonderful times that you've shared with your loved one,because of His love for you.......
January 26, 2015
May your household find peace and comfort in knowing sickness, pain and death will one day be gone for this has been promised. With my deepest condolences for your loss.
January 26, 2015
May the God of all comfort (Ps. 83:18) comfort you and your family during this difficult time.
Jennifer Atkinson
January 26, 2015
Jennifer Atkinson it was aleasure having you in My life. I have learned a lot from you.
January 26, 2015
Joe Franklin was truly an amazing person with so much talent the loss is clearly ours. Prayers fill our hearts and burst forth from our mouths to God asking him to let us remember clearly the love we have for this wonderful person gone from our lives never forgetting the joy we shared experiencing a great and authentic talent. (Hebrews 6:10).
Laurie and Herb Squire
January 25, 2015
Our heartfelt condolences. Joe was a very dear and valued friend and, along with so many people, we feel his loss keenly.
J. Lewis
January 25, 2015
Please accept my sincere condolences for your loss of your dear one, Joe Franklin. May reflecting on the memories of all the good times you've shared ease the pain you now feel. And may you find the needed comfort and strength from God during this time of sorrow. (Psalms 145:14, 18)
Ron D.
January 25, 2015
My dad and I used to listen to Joe together, they are wonderful memories as my dad too passed away. Rest in Peace Joe, you've done so much to help start careers in a friendly and caring way. You will live on!
January 25, 2015
My deepest condolences to the Franklin family.
(John 5:25)
scott newman
January 25, 2015
A throwback in entertainment, a one-of-a-kind, and someone who loved his craft. He'll never be replaced as a host, personality, or a character. Great job completing your life, Joe.
Dwayne Bickham,Sr.
January 25, 2015
In God's care rest in peace
January 25, 2015
Thanks Joe, for everything you did to help the once nobodies become somebody and set entertainment history on the right track.
ARL Washington DC
January 25, 2015
Sorry to hear of his passing. Please accept my sincere condolences. He was the gateway for many future stars. May the Almighty God grant peace to his family during this difficult time~Rom. 15:33.
Frank F
January 25, 2015
I grew up watching Mr. Franklin on WWOR the Superstation out of Secaucus, NJ. A wonderful man, Joe Franklin is now conducting his interviews in heaven. I am so grateful to have spoken with him last month. He was as enthusiastic and inspiring as ever. Many thanks to one of his favorites,Ms. Ronnie Littell for introducing me to him. Joe will live on in our memories and on TV and the Internet where he regularly appears on The Ronnie Littell Special.
A true class act and creator of day and late night talk shows, thank you for all the wonderful interviews and for being a role model.
Bill Johnson
January 25, 2015
Rest in peace Joe.
jesse cunningham
January 25, 2015
great american great human being will miss him
michelle plakas-kaiser
January 25, 2015
rip
Showing 1 - 75 of 75 results
Make a Donation
in Joe Franklin's name
How to support Joe's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Joe Franklin's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read moreMore ways to support the family
Visit the Sympathy Shop
Sponsored