Sister to Actor Paul Lynde ('Bewitched' & 'Hollywood Squares') Recalled His Comic Genius in 1988

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[Note: Unless otherwise indicated, this article features commentary and quotes from an interview conducted by the author with those mentioned.]

Introducing Paul

Actor Paul Lynde, who died in 1982 from a heart attack, left an indelible mark in movies and television. He was best known on the small screen for his performance as Elizabeth Montgomery's wise-cracking warlock Uncle Arthur on TV's Bewitched (ABC, 1964-1972), and as the celebrity "center square" on the original Hollywood Squares game show (NBC/syndicated, 1995-1980).

It was Lynde's uniquely comedic line delivery, precise timing, and stand-out voice that became his trademark; a sarcastic, smiling twang. In 1988, his sister Helen Lynde, described the actor's humorous vocal timber and pronunciation as "a natural ability. He always talked that way."

Growing Up with the Lynde Family

Helen and Paul Lynde were two of six children in the Lynde family. As Helen acknowledged, however, while "we were growing up, I didn't think he was that funny, and neither did our mother. She would always tell him, 'Oh, stop being so silly.' She loved him dearly, but she just didn't get his humor."

Helen also explained how fond her brother was of appearing on Bewitched. "He had a great affection for the show," she said, "...and he loved playing exaggerated roles like Uncle Arthur."

Helen said her talented sibling knew the appeal the series had for children and was always amazed at the response he received from them due to Bewitched as well as The Hollywood Squares.

Chemistry on Screen and Off

According to his sister Helen, Paul Lynde also had a great deal of affection for the Bewitched cast, particularly Elizabeth Montgomery, the show's leading lady. "He loved her," Helen said, "...and he was also very fond of Agnes Moorehead" (who played Montgomery's fiesty TV supernatural mother Endora).

In Witch Conclusion

Although Paul Lynde left his world much too early, his performances on Bewitched, The Hollywood Squares, and the countless other TV and movie appearances he made, will remain forever cherished by his dedicated fans around the world.