Phyllis Diller was a very funny lady who seems to be largely forgotten. Phyllis was a great standup comedian who also starred in TV series and movies. She got a lot of mileage out of denigrating her appearance. I’ve always appreciated self-deprecating humor. Sorry, self-defecating humor. Although, to be honest, I’m not entirely opposed to the other kind.
Phyllis, to me, was like a female version of Rodney Dangerfield. And I consider that a great compliment. With that said, here are some facts about Phyllis Diller.
1: Phyllis started out writing jokes for other housewives. She ultimately opened doors for other female comedians.
You don’t hear of many female doormen. Hold on, being told that’s not what opening doors meant in this case.
2: She was born Phyllis Ada Driver on July 17, 1917, in Lima, Ohio.
And she went from being a Driver to being driven.
3: At the age of 22 she married Sherwood Anderson Diller. The family moved to Michigan during World War II. There, Sherwood worked at the Willow Run Bomber Plant.
You probably don't know my name, but have likely seen my work. I've written for numerous syndicated cartoon strips and my gags have appeared in national pubs.
