Trivia

In 1976, he was to co-star as a divorced hairdresser in the beautician comedy series "Snip", a TV takeoff of the Warren Beatty movie Shampoo (1975). Just before its scheduled September 30th debut, NBC abruptly canceled the show -- so fast in fact that TV Guide did not even have time to remove a special feature on the show in its Fall Preview of September 18-24. Why? One of the show's supporting characters, a fellow hairdresser named Michael, was openly gay and NBC got cold feet at the last minute. Had "Snip" premiered, it would have been a first on American series TV. Instead, Billy Crystal went on to receive that honor with his gay character a year later on the popular series Soap (1977). Seven episodes of "Snip" were completed when it got the ax. The only place the series ended up airing was in Australia, and it became the highest rated show in Australian history at that time.

Appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson (1962) more times than any other guest, 158 appearances (not including guest hosting).

Brenner died of cancer at his home in Manhattan, New York City, aged 78, with his wife, Ruth Davey, at his side.

In high school, was elected class president each year and "Class Comedian."

Attended Temple University where he graduated with honors, majoring in mass communication.

Longtime friend of Richard Lewis.

Substituted for Paul Lynde, (while he was on vacation) as the center square on TV's Hollywood Squares during 1975-1980.

Release of his book, "I Think There's a Terrorist in My Soup: How to Survive Personal and World Problems with Laughter--Seriously". (2003)

Became engaged to Tai Babilonia in Central Park in New York City in May, 2005.

He and Elizabeth Slater were married in Las Vegas during Brenner's live HBO comedy special.

Release of his book, "If God Wanted Us to Travel--". (1990)

Brenner lived with Charisse Brody from 1980-83; the couple had one son.

Release of his book, "Revenge is the Best Exercise". (1984)

Was in a relationship with former pairs figure skater Tai Babilonia 2002 - 2009.

Biography in: "Who's Who in Comedy" by Ronald L. Smith, pg. 59-60. New York: Facts on File, 1992. ISBN 0816023387