Avery Lawrence Schreiber (April 9, 1935 – January 7, 2002) was an American comedian and actor. He was a veteran of stage, television, and film.

Spouse(s):

• Rochelle Issacs (1962-2002; his death; 2 children)

Life and career

Schreiber was born in Chicago, Illinois, the son of Minnie (née Shear) and George Schreiber. He started his career in Chicago at the Goodman Theatre. He joined The Second City and later teamed with Jack Burns to form the comedy team of Burns and Schreiber. They recorded several comedy albums and appeared on numerous television shows.

Schreiber is remembered for his many Doritos ads in the 1970s, as well as his appearances in classic television shows. He was easily recognizable for his trademark bushy moustache, curly hair, and comedic reactions. In 1965, Schreiber played the role of Captain Manzini on My Mother the Car.

In the summer of 1973, he co-hosted the ABC comedy show, The Burns and Schreiber Comedy Hour.

Schreiber was a regular guest star on Chico and the Man. He was also a frequent guest on the game show Match Game and a guest in a first-season episode of The Muppet Show (written by former partner Jack Burns, whom he mentioned during a stand-up routine in the episode).

Avery continued to work in film, television and the Theater, as well as teach Improvisational Theater his technique up until the time of his death. He taught master classes at The Second City in Chicago and Los Angeles, and also taught out of his home.

Death

In 1994, Schreiber suffered a heart attack, a complication of diabetes. Though he survived triple bypass surgery, he never fully recovered. He died of another heart attack on January 7, 2002 at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. He was residing in Los Angeles at the time of his death. He was cremated.

Legacy

In 2003, the Avery Schreiber Theatre was founded in North Hollywood, California. In 2013 the Avery Schreiber Theatre changed its name to "The Avery Schreiber Playhouse" with the blessing of Shelly, Avery's wife. It is located at 4934 Lankershim Blvd in the NoHo Arts District.