Jackie Gleason

Born John Herbert Gleason in Brooklyn, New York, to an Irish-American father and an Irish-American mother, Jackie Gleason's lineage was about as Jewish as a ham sandwich. There's no indication he ever flirted with a menorah, identified with Jewish culture, or even knew a decent pastrami joint, making his Jewish Identity score a solid zero.

Gleason, a true force of nature, earned his "Great One" moniker through sheer talent and tireless work. From early burlesque and vaudeville to dominating television with "The Honeymooners" and delivering memorable dramatic film performances in "The Hustler" and "Smokey and the Bandit" franchise, his career was a masterclass in entertainment. His influence on comedy and his iconic characters bring a certain universal nachas, even if not specifically Jewish nachas.

While his contributions to American culture were immense, particularly his pioneering work in early television, his Jewish Kvell-worthiness isn't exactly off the charts for us. He was a giant, no doubt, but not our giant. Still, his ability to make millions laugh and the enduring legacy of "And away we go!" secures him a respectable, if religiously irrelevant, K-score.