Tom Poston Biography

You probably saw it reported on the news when long-time comedian Tom Poston passed away on April 20, 2007. He was a well-known comedian who began his long career on the "Steve Allen Show" in 1956. But there was more to Poston than his trademark puzzled look and his comedic talents. Read this Tom Poston biography and learn more about the man behind the name.

Decorated World War II Hero
Tom Poston was born on October 17, 1921 in Columbus, Ohio. His first performance in front of an audience happened when he was just nine years old. Poston became an acrobat who performed with the "Flying Zebleys." After high school graduation, Poston enrolled at Bethany College in West Virginia. But he interrupted his college life when he signed up for the United States Army Corps to fight in the second World War II. Poston started his stint in the Army as a Corporal, and he served as a pilot in Europe. When he left the service in 1945, Captain Tom Poston took with him medals for valor.

Comedian, Game Show Panelist and Emmy Award Winner
Instead of returning to Bethany College, Poston enrolled in the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. His television career started in 1956 when he became the "Man in the Street" on the "Steve Allen Show." He won the Emmy Award for "Best Supporting Actor (Continuing Character) in a Comedy Series" in 1959. Tom Poston became the host of "Split Personality" that same year. He later appeared on television as a game show panelist. He was a regular on "To Tell the Truth" and "What's My Line?".

Movie Actor, TV Star and Emmy Award Nominee
Tom Poston's professional resume includes the job of "movie actor." He became a movie actor in 1953 with a role in "City That Never Sleeps". In 1962 he acted in "Zotz!", a comedy directed by William Castle. He did "The Old Dark House" the next year. Tom Poston also acted in "Soldier in the Rain" with Jackie Gleason. He appeared in other movies, as well, like "Cold Turkey" in 1971 with the legendary Dick Van Dyke. He won a part in the movie, "The Happy Hooker" in 1975 where he acted with Lynn Redgrave. Tom Poston's last movie was in 2004 when he played in "The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement."