Zero Mostel

About

Actor and comedian who originated the role of Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof on Broadway, for which he received his second Tony Award.

Before Fame

As a boy, he developed his talents for painting and drawing through the Educational Alliance and would go to the Metropolitan Museum of Art to copy paintings.

Trivia

He was blacklisted as a communist during the 1950s, which put a temporary halt to his acting career, despite admiration from those in the blacklisted community. This gave him time to focus on his passion for art.

Family Life

He married Clara Sverd in 1939, though the marriage ended in 1944. He had two children with his second wife, Kathryn Celia Harkin.

Associated With

Gene Wilder wrote about him in his autobiography, and he thanked Mostel for his teaching and help.