Danny Thomas

Danny Thomas (born Amos Muzyad Yakhoob Kairouz; January 6, 1912 – February 6, 1991) was an American nightclub comedian, singer, actor, and producer whose career spanned five decades. He is best known for starring in the television sitcom Make Room for Daddy, also known as The Danny Thomas Show, which aired from 1953 to 1965. Thomas was also the founder of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a leading institution in the treatment and research of pediatric catastrophic diseases.

Early Life

Danny Thomas was born in Deerfield, Michigan, to Charles and Margaret Kairouz, immigrants from Lebanon. His family moved to Toledo, Ohio, where he was raised. From a young age, Thomas had a passion for entertainment and began performing in local clubs and on radio in the 1930s.

Career

Thomas's career in entertainment began with radio and nightclub performances. His big break came when he ventured into television with Make Room for Daddy. The show was innovative for its time, focusing on the life of a nightclub entertainer balancing his career with his family life. Thomas's portrayal of the loving but often befuddled father was a hit with audiences and the show ran for 11 seasons.

In addition to his work on television, Thomas appeared in several films, including The Jazz Singer (1952), where he played the lead role. He was also a successful producer, founding Thomas-Spelling Productions with producer Aaron Spelling. Their company produced several popular television series, including The Mod Squad and The Real McCoys.

Philanthropy

Perhaps Thomas's most enduring legacy is the founding of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1962. Inspired by a vow he made to Saint Jude Thaddeus in a moment of desperation, Thomas dedicated much of his life and resources to the hospital. St. Jude's mission is to advance cures, and means of prevention, for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. Notably, no child is denied treatment based on race, religion, or a family's ability to pay.

Personal Life

Danny Thomas was married to Rose Marie Mantell Thomas, with whom he had three children, including Marlo Thomas, who became a successful actress in her own right. Thomas was a devout Maronite Catholic and was known for his commitment to his faith and charitable work.

Death and Legacy

Danny Thomas passed away on February 6, 1991, from heart failure. His legacy lives on through his contributions to entertainment and his philanthropic efforts, particularly the ongoing work of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Thomas's commitment to helping children with catastrophic diseases has made a significant impact on pediatric medicine and research.

Filmography

Danny Thomas's career in film and television was extensive, with notable appearances in:

• The Jazz Singer (1952)
• Make Room for Daddy (1953-1965)
• I'll See You in My Dreams (1951)
• The Danny Thomas Hour (1967-1968)

Awards and Honors

Throughout his career, Danny Thomas received numerous awards and honors for both his entertainment career and his philanthropic efforts. These include several Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe Award, and the Congressional Gold Medal awarded posthumously in 1983 for his work with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.