Anthrax’s Frank Bello: Don Rickles Gave Me an Unforgettable Onstage Moment
The entertainment world lost one of the giants of comedy on Thursday (April 6) when Don Rickles died at the age of 90. According to TMZ, Rickles passed away at his Los Angeles home after suffering kidney failure. Rickles was known for his brand of insult comedy and became a legend in the industry. During a recent interview with Anthrax's Frank Bello, we asked him some of his favorite moments that came from Anthrax's celebrity and he recalled once being invited up onstage as part of Rickles' routine.
"In Long Island, I brought my wife to see Don Rickles, the famous comedian," starts Bello. "I'm a diehard Don Rickles fan as a lot of people are. I was so lucky to get second row for that show and he's so funny that I was cackling." The bassist says he was hoping he didn't get noticed, but Rickles picked him out of the crowd.
"I've been on a lot of stages in my life, but this was my scary time," says Bello. "I climb onto the stage and I fall onto the stage. It was so embarrassing. It got a big laugh but due to my embarrassment." According to Bello, Rickles involved him in a skit and it turned out to be so much fun. Watch the video above to hear the full story.
"It was my favorite time," says Bello. "Playing Yankee Stadium [with Anthrax for "The Big 4"] and that. Those two times are my favorite part of being on a stage in any part of my life. I've been on a lot of stages, but man, I'll never forget that." The bassist concludes, "Don Rickles for me, and he was part of the Rat Pack and all that, it was a big deal for me and I'll always carry that with me. It was a pretty great time."
Early in his career, Rickles became friends with members of the Rat Pack and his popularity continued with the support of such icons of the day as Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin. He was also regular on The Tonight Show With Johnny Carson and appeared in numerous films and TV shows throughout his career, including top-lining the '70s sitcom favorite C.P.O. Sharkey. In his latter years, Rickles became one of Las Vegas' most famous entertainers.
Our condolences to the Rickles family on their loss.
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