One of America's most popular and controversial stand-up comedians, Jackie Mason has had audiences convulsing with laughter in radio, television, films, and in one-man shows on Broadway and in London's West End. Mason has had two careers, the first being greatly restricted in 1964, following an alleged obscene act on network television.

After working for several years in Catskill Mountain resorts and small nightclubs, Mason caught the eye of Ed Sullivan, who signed him to a $45,000, six-show contract for his network variety hour. In one of these appearances on October 18, 1964, the show was running late, and Sullivan, off-stage, raised two fingers to try to speed up Mason's act. On-stage, Jackie held up a finger and made jokes about Sullivan's gesture. Although Mason denied it, Sullivan thought it was the finger and canceled the comedian's contract. Although Mason claimed he was blackballed in the entertainment industry...