Lou Jacobi (born Louis Harold Jacobovitch; December 28 1913 – October 23 2009) was a Canadian‑American character actor whose career spanned seven decades in theatre, film, and television. He is noted for his comedic portrayals of Jewish and ethnic characters, as well as for serious supporting roles.
Early life and background
Jacobi was born in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, to Jewish parents Joseph and Fay Jacobovitch. He entered the world of performance as a child, making his stage debut in 1924 as a violin prodigy in a Yiddish‑theatre production titled The Rabbi and the Priest. After working in various entertainment capacities—including drama director for the Toronto Y.M.H.A., a summer‑resort entertainer, and a stand‑up comic in Canada’s equivalent of the Borscht Belt—he moved to London, where he appeared in productions such as Guys and Dolls and Pal Joey.
Broadway breakthrough
Jacobi’s breakthrough on the American stage came with the 1955 Broadway production of The Diary of Anne Frank, in which he originated the role of Hans van Daan (Mr. Van Daan). He reprised this role in the 1959 film adaptation of the play.
Film and television career
Jacobi’s film debut occurred in the 1953 British comedy Is Your Honeymoon Really Necessary?. Over the ensuing decades he appeared in a wide range of movies, including:
- Irma la Douce (1963)
- Little Murders (1971)
- Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex (1972)
- Next Stop, Greenwich Village (1976)
- Arthur (1981)
- My Favorite Year (1982)
- Avalon (1990) – notable for the recurring line “You cut the turkey!?”
- I.Q. (1994), his final film role, portraying mathematician Kurt Gödel.
On television, Jacobi guest‑starred in series such as Playhouse 90, Too Close for Comfort, and various comedy sketch shows, often contributing his distinctive comic timing.
Personal life
In 1957 Jacobi married Ruth Ludwin, who predeceased him in 2004. The couple remained together until his death.
Death and legacy
Lou Jacobi died on October 23 2009 in New York City at the age of 95. He is remembered for his versatile character work, his contributions to both stage and screen, and his star on Canada’s Walk of Fame, which commemorates his impact on Canadian performing arts.
