BYRON KANE

May 9, 1923

Byron Kane was born as Byron Harold Kaplan in St. Albans, Vermont. He served in the US Special Services during World War II. On radio, he was the droll announcer for “The Story Lady” series as  well as “Tales of the Texas Rangers.”

He made his film debut as a reporter (uncredited) in Orson Welles’ The Lady From Shanghai (1947).  The very next year he made his television debut on an episode of “Oboler Comedy Theatre.” 

He appeared on “I Love Lucy” in “Ricky Loses His Temper” (ILL S3;E19) filmed on January 21, 1954 and first aired on February 22, 1954. Kane played Morris Williams, a theatrical agent who represents Max Terhune and his pal Elmer Sneezeweed. The name Morris Williams is an inside joke based on the famous theatrical agent William Morris, who’s agency still operates today. 

Kane returned to the series during its final season for “Lucy and the Loving Cup” (ILL S6;E12) filmed on November 1, 1956 and first aired on January 7, 1957.  Kane played a commuter, getting on the subway at the Spring Street stop.

LUCY: “Pardon me, can you tell me where the stairs are?”
KANE: “You’d better get off the train first!”
LUCY: “I am off!”
KANE: “You’re telling me!” 

He served as Blake Edwards production assistant on numerous television shows and was an associate producer for the “Peter Gunn” series (1958-61).  He also appeared on the series as Barney the Bartender in more than 40 episodes and even directed an episode. 

In February 1974, records show that Warner Brothers employed Kane for a day of work as “Narrator” on Lucy’s Mame.  As the film was already shot at the time, this was likely to narrate radio or TV ads promoting the film. 

His final screen appearance was for his friend Blake Edwards in S.O.B. in 1981 playing a funeral home owner.  He had a role in the movie Mickey and Maude but died before his scenes were filmed.

He died on April 10, 1984 at the age of 60.