Joyce Randolph Obituary: Joyce Randolph, the beloved actress renowned for her role as Trixie Norton, the spirited wife of Ed Norton, a rubber-limbed sewer worker entangled in his neighbor’s comical get-rich-quick schemes, bid farewell on Saturday at the age of 99 in her Manhattan home.
Her passing marks the end of an era, leaving an indelible mark on the iconic 1950s sitcom “The Honeymooners.”
Her son, Randy Charles, officially confirmed her departure.
In the annals of television history, Ms. Randolph stood as the last surviving member of a remarkable quartet that captivated Saturday night audiences during the golden age of live television.
The chemistry and charm shared among Jackie Gleason (Ralph Kramden), Audrey Meadows (Alice Kramden), Art Carney (Ed Norton), and Joyce Randolph were timeless, leaving an enduring legacy that persisted for decades through reruns and home video releases.
With the passing of Jackie Gleason in 1987, Audrey Meadows in 1996, and Art Carney in 2003, Joyce Randolph’s departure now marks the closing chapter of this legendary ensemble.
Their enduring performances continue to resonate with audiences, ensuring that “The Honeymooners” remains a cherished classic in the hearts of fans worldwide.
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Joyce Randolph Obituary: Family & Illness & Health
JoThe cherished actress known for her role as Trixie Norton, peacefully passed away in her sleep at her New York City home on Saturday, succumbing to the effects of old age, as confirmed by her son to TMZ.
The last surviving member of the beloved television show had been under hospice care during her final days and, unfortunately, was unable to walk.
Born in 1924 in Michigan, Randolph made a significant impact on the entertainment industry after moving to New York City in 1950 to star in the Broadway production “Ladies Night in a Turkish Bath” before transitioning to television.
Since the news of her passing emerged, an outpouring of tributes has flooded social media platforms.
On X (formerly Twitter), one user expressed, “It’s the end of an era. Another chapter of the golden age of television officially comes to a close with the passing of Joyce Randolph.”
A second fan posted a heartfelt farewell, saying, “So long, Trixie, and thank you.”
The sentiment echoes the gratitude felt by many for Randolph’s contributions to the rich legacy of television and entertainment.
Family
Joyce Randolph, the esteemed actress renowned for her portrayal of Trixie Norton, entered into matrimony with Richard Lincoln Charles, a prosperous marketing executive, on October 2, 1955—just a day after the premiere of “The Honeymooners.”
Tragically, Richard Charles passed away in 1997 at the age of 74.
Their union was blessed with a son, Randolph Richard Charles, born in 1960, who has followed in his father’s footsteps as a marketing executive.
In a poignant connection to the world of sports, Joyce Randolph was the grand-aunt of former Major League Baseball pitcher Tim Redding, adding another layer to the actress’s multifaceted legacy.
The Honeymooners Earnings
In her portrayal of Trixie, Ms. Randolph brought to life the upstairs wife who, with folded arms, shared lighthearted camaraderie with her confidante, Alice.
While Trixie’s character was less intricately developed than others, Ms. Randolph held a revered status among aficionados as the last living connection to the inspired lunacy of a show that garnered a cult-like following.
Fan clubs, esoteric trivia contests, and memorabilia sales attested to the enduring popularity of “The Honeymooners.”
At a 1984 gathering of the Royal Association for the Longevity and Preservation of the Honeymooners (RALPH) on Long Island, attendees could procure coveted items such as a size-52 bus driver’s uniform or the highly sought-after Trixie apron.
Ms. Randolph graced the program during its zenith from 1951 to 1957. Originating as a skit on “Cavalcade of Stars,” a DuMont network variety show featuring Jackie Gleason, it transitioned into a segment on CBS’s “The Jackie Gleason Show” from 1952 to 1954.
In 1955-56, it evolved into a standalone half-hour CBS series, with 39 episodes filmed before a live audience of 1,000. The show made its final appearance in 1957 as part of “The Jackie Gleason Show.”
During the height of the show’s popularity, Ms. Randolph earned the distinction of being its lowest-salaried star, receiving $500 per week.
In contrast, Jackie Gleason commanded contracts worth millions, though he bore all production costs and took $65,000 to $70,000 per episode. Art Carney received $3,500 weekly, while Audrey Meadows earned $2,000.
