Don Rickles, who died in his Los Angeles home on Thursday at age 90, will forever be remembered for his caustic brand of comedy — it’s no wonder fans often dubbed him “The Merchant of Venom” and “The King of Zing.” But on Twitter, the comedian was a total softie.
Rickles officially joined the social media platform on July 6, 2011, setting his genial tone right off the bat, tweeting: “Hi, I am Don Rickles posting my first tweet, join me on my trip to greatness!”
Hi, I am Don Rickles posting my first tweet, join me on my trip to greatness!
— Don Rickles (@DonRickles) July 7, 2011
From there, Rickles mostly used his account to promote appearances (in announcing his guest spot on TV Land’s “Hot in Cleveland,” he called Betty White “Wonder Woman”), and keep his fans abreast of his daily activities (“I had a big day today – I got up,” he tweeted in 2011.)
Well up until his passing, Rickles kept his insult humor alive, mocking audience members as well as big-name celebrities during standup appearances. On Twitter, however, he maintained an adorable, sweet-grandfatherly tone.
“Watch me on Jay Leno Thursday night, and don’t worry, he’ll be funny!” is about as harsh as Rickles got.
Watch me on Jay Leno Thursday night, and don't worry, he'll be funny!
— Don Rickles (@DonRickles) July 13, 2011
Below are some of his tweets, which are sure to bring a smile to your face.
The Rickles Family want to wish you a Happy 4th of July. Instead of fireworks Chauncey will bark 3 times! pic.twitter.com/2Eq9X13mzy
— Don Rickles (@DonRickles) July 3, 2015
Today, May 8th is me 89th Birthday. The museum called, but I am not ready to be stuffed!
— Don Rickles (@DonRickles) May 8, 2015
To my Jewish friends pass the matzo & Happy Passover. To my Gentile friends Happy Easter & don't forget to feed the rabbits! Happy Holidays.
— Don Rickles (@DonRickles) April 3, 2015
Tina Fey & Amy Poehler are coming to my Tribute. I'm flattered. A surgeon joined them at the hip. #OneNightOnly http://t.co/YXSFJyOokP
— Don Rickles (@DonRickles) May 2, 2014
Chauncey dressed as pirate for Halloween. He's gotten bones, a tennis ball & now wants to be known as Johnny Depp. pic.twitter.com/eFaRX7ZFga
— Don Rickles (@DonRickles) October 31, 2013
Chauncey & I & our family wish you a Happy Valentine's Day. Big hugs and kisses for all your loved ones. pic.twitter.com/ez9AiA89
— Don Rickles (@DonRickles) February 14, 2013
It's so hot here in L.A. that our air conditioner in our home couldn't handle it and quit. Believe me it'll never find a better job.
— Don Rickles (@DonRickles) September 16, 2012