Known affectionately as "The Great One" Jackie Gleason was a legendary actor, comedian, writer, and composer. Gleason was known for his brash and visual comedy, and the character that typified his humor was Ralph Kramden, who he played on the television series "The Honeymooners." Gleason is also known for developing "The Jackie Gleason Show" that consistently had high ratings from the mid-1950s to the 1970s. He also starred in notable films alongside Hollywood heavyweights Paul Newman in "The Hustler" and Burt Reynolds in "Smokey and The Bandit." But behind the scenes, Gleason's life was far away from the hilarious content he provided his fans. His life was filled with turmoil, substance abuse, and career rivalry.

Jackie Gleason was one of the most iconic and beloved figures in American entertainment, whose career spanned across several decades and genres, from television and film to music and comedy. His blend of humor, heart, and artistry made him a household name, and his passing in 1987 marked the end of an era. Retro Blast: Inside Jackie Gleason's Cause Of Death Known for his larger-than-life personality, Gleason became a star whose legacy continues to influence the entertainment world. However, the cause of his death was tragic and complex, and it was a final chapter in a life filled with both extraordinary achievements and personal struggles.