Avery Schreiber began his career as a stand-up comedian, and it was during those early days that he crossed paths with Jack Burns—his future comedy partner and longtime collaborator. Avery Schreiber and Jack Burns quickly made a name for themselves, transitioning from the comedy circuit to television appearances on iconic shows like “The Andy Griffith Show,” “The Ed Sullivan Show,” and “The Dean Martin Show.” Their rising popularity eventually led to their own spotlight: in 1973, they launched “The Burns and Schreiber Comedy Hour,” a show that showcased Avery Schreiber’s sharp timing and dynamic stage presence.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Avery Schreiber expanded into film, taking on roles in movies such as “Swashbuckler” and the satirical gem “The Last Remake of Beau Geste.” Over time, Avery Schreiber began shifting toward more family-oriented projects, a transition highlighted by his heartwarming portrayal of Geppetto in “Christmas at Walt Disney World.” This role demonstrated a gentler side of Avery Schreiber, endearing him to younger audiences.
In 1981, Avery Schreiber appeared in the comedy “Caveman” and also stepped into voice acting, lending his distinctive voice to an episode of the beloved animated series “Smurfs.” That same passion for animation continued as Avery Schreiber contributed to other children’s classics, including “DuckTales” and “Animaniacs,” where his vocal performances added humor and charm.
During the 1990s, Avery Schreiber made memorable cameos in Mel Brooks’ hilarious parodies—”Robin Hood: Men in Tights” and “Dracula: Dead and Loving It”—proving he still had the comedic spark that launched his career. One of his most recognizable later roles came when Avery Schreiber took on the part of the super in Monica and Chandler’s apartment building on the hit ‘90s sitcom “Friends.” It marked his final recurring television appearance, a fitting capstone to a diverse and enduring career. Through decades of evolving entertainment landscapes, Avery Schreiber remained a consistent and cherished figure in American comedy.
When it comes to Avery Schreiber’s filmography, there are a few standout moments that really define his career. Avery Schreiber was involved in several projects over the years, but one title consistently stands out as his highest rated: The Last Remake of Beau Geste from 1977. This film really showcased what Avery Schreiber could bring to the table and remains a favorite among critics and fans alike. On the other end of the spectrum, Avery Schreiber also appeared in Dracula: Dead and Loving It (1995), which unfortunately landed as his lowest rated work. While Avery Schreiber brought his signature style to the role, the movie didn’t quite resonate the same way with audiences. Still, both films—especially when viewed together—highlight the range Avery Schreiber had as a performer throughout his career.