New Documentary Reveals How Shari Lewis's Marriages Influenced Her Career and the Creation of Lamb Chop
A new documentary, "Shari & Lamb Chop," now playing in select theaters, delves into the life of the iconic ventriloquist and puppeteer, Shari Lewis, revealing how her two marriages significantly influenced her career trajectory and the creation of her beloved character, Lamb Chop. Recent articles, particularly from People.com, shed light on Lewis's personal life and the challenges she faced balancing her professional ambitions with her relationships.
Shari Lewis's First Marriage: Stan Lewis and Early Career Challenges
Shari Lewis's first marriage was to Stan Lewis, an account executive in television. The marriage lasted from 1953 to 1957. According to reports, their marriage ended due to a "scandal" involving Stan. This event posed a significant challenge for the young entertainer, as efforts were made to protect her public image from the fallout.
The Introduction of Lamb Chop: A Turning Point
In 1957, a pivotal moment in Shari Lewis's career occurred with the introduction of Lamb Chop on Captain Kangaroo. This marked the beginning of Lamb Chop's journey to becoming a cultural icon and a staple in children's entertainment.
Second Marriage to Jeremy Tarcher: A Creative Partnership
In 1958, Shari Lewis married Jeremy Tarcher, who initially worked as a TV assistant program manager before becoming a publisher specializing in non-fiction and celebrity books. Together, Shari and Jeremy welcomed their daughter, Mallory, in July 1962. Jeremy became a huge influence on Shari's career, and helped her co-write an episode of Star Trek, "The Lights of Zetar."
"The Shari Lewis Show" and International Success
From 1960 to 1963, "The Shari Lewis Show" aired, solidifying her status as a leading children's entertainer. Later, from 1968 to 1976, Lewis hosted her own TV series on BBC-1 in England, expanding her reach to international audiences.
Lamb Chop's Return to American Television
In 1992, Lamb Chop made a triumphant return to American television with "Lamb Chop's Play-Along" on PBS. This show, which ran until 1997, reintroduced Lamb Chop to a new generation of children, ensuring her enduring appeal.
Balancing Act: Career, Marriage, and Personal Struggles
The documentary "Shari & Lamb Chop" explores the complexities of Lewis's life, including her relentless work ethic and the challenges she faced balancing her career with her marriage to Jeremy Tarcher. Reports indicate that Tarcher's interest in "New Age" ideologies and perceived lack of professional drive sometimes created tensions in their relationship. Shari Lewis, known for her ambition and drive, navigated these challenges while supporting her husband.
Lamb Chop's Adult Performances: A Different Side
The documentary also reveals a lesser-known aspect of Lamb Chop's performances. In Las Vegas nightclubs, Lamb Chop was featured in more adult-oriented acts, sometimes appearing "drunk" or making passes at male guest stars. This showcased Lewis's versatility and her ability to adapt Lamb Chop for different audiences.
The Passing of Shari Lewis and Jeremy Tarcher
Shari Lewis passed away in 1998 at the age of 65 due to uterine cancer. Jeremy Tarcher passed away in 2015 at the age of 83. Their legacy lives on through their work and their daughter, Mallory Lewis, who continues to perform with Lamb Chop.
