Joyce Randolph, 'The Honeymooners’ last surviving member, passes away at 99

Joyce Randolph, the actor renowned for her portrayal of the spirited and sassy Trixie Norton in the iconic sitcom ‘The Honeymooners,’ died in Manhattan at the age of 99.

She was the last surviving main character of the all-time famous Golden Age TV sitcom and her death has not only left a void in the world of entertainment but also in the hearts of generations who found joy in her wit and warmth.

The news of Joyce’s death was confirmed by her son to CBS on January 14.

Joyce Randolph enjoyed a career that spanned multiple decades, but it was her remarkable chemistry with Jackie Gleason and Art Carney in ‘The Honeymooners’ that solidified her place in the annals of comedy history.

The actress is reported to have peacefully passed away on a January 13th evening due to natural causes, in her home located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Following five years as a valued member of Gleason's on-air repertory company, Randolph essentially retired, making the decision to fully devote herself to marriage and motherhood.

In 1955, Randolph married businessman Richard Lincoln Charles, who sadly passed away at the age of 74 in 1997. The actress subsequently resided with her only child.

Fans pay tribute

Fans of both the show and the esteemed actor expressed their deep-felt sentiments and sympathy following her demise.

Some of the comments shared include, ‘It is with great sadness that we bid farewell to Joyce Randolph, the last surviving member of 'The Honeymooners' Classic 39 episodes. She was not only part of the main cast but also every supporting actor, including those who were children at the time. She reached the age of 99! Rest in peace,’ ‘The final member of 'The Honeymooners' has now departed,’ and ‘My thoughts and condolences go out to the family of the legendary Joyce Randolph. I truly cherished her role in 'The Honeymooners.’

About ‘The Honeymooners’

The 1950s television series depicted the comedic misadventures of Ralph Kramden, a New York City bus driver with grand ambitions and a fiery temper, played by Jackie Gleason, alongside his quick-witted wife, Alice, portrayed by Audrey Meadows. Along for the humorous journey were their closest friends: Ed Norton, a sewer worker played by Art Carney, and his eternally optimistic wife, Trixie, brought to life by Joyce Randolph. Together, they embarked on a hilarious rollercoaster through the trials of everyday life, zany schemes, and touching moments of warmth and affection.

In a 2007 interview with the Asbury Park Press, Joyce Randolph shared, "I just played myself, to a large extent... but, of course, I was trying to be Trixie and be married to that eccentric man."

As one of the pioneering American TV series that portrayed a working-class couple grappling with everyday challenges and financial hardships without romanticizing their circumstances, ‘The Honeymooners’ struck a chord with viewers who identified with Ralph and Alice's relatable experiences.

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