Robert Klein
American stand-up comedian, singer and actor
Robert Klein (born February 8, 1942) is an American stand-up comedian, singer and actor.
Klein was born in the Bronx, the son of Frieda (née Moskowitz) and Benjamin Klein, and was raised in a "prototypical 1950s Bronx Jewish" environment. After graduating from DeWitt Clinton High School, Klein planned to study medicine. However, he changed his mind during his studies in university. After graduating from Alfred University, he studied at Yale Drama School when he got wind of an opportunity to audition for The Second City. In a piece he wrote for the improvisational troupe's book, Klein recalled sitting in a room full of other hopefuls, including Fred Willard. Klein's audition consisted of an improvisation set with Willard about two guys in a nightclub, which was successful enough to get Klein and Willard hired by Second City. Klein had said another young man, Billy Dee Williams, was invited to join the troupe, but turned it down.
NOTE: Bio updated on June 14, 2011.
Special thanks to our Lifetime Patrons
View All Sponsors ›
Sign-up here to receive email updates from The Connecticut Forum!
We will send you exciting updates about our season, panelist announcements, special events, news and information that will keep you "in the know."
Your personal information is safe with us. We will never sell or share your personal information with anyone else.