Guide Note

Dan Rowan was a comedian best known for his role as host and co-creator of Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In.

He was known as the "straight man" to his partner Dick Martin.

He was born in a traveling carnival with which his parents toured as a singing and dancing duo. In 1940 he began working in the mail room at Paramount Pictures, from which he was able to become the company's youngest staff writer.

During World War II, Rowan served as a fighter pilot and won a number of commendations.

He Died of Lymphatic Cancer in 1987.

Fast Facts

1. Full name: Daniel Hale Rowan
2. Born: July 22, 1922
3. Birthplace: Beggs, Oklahoma
4. Born into a traveling carnival
5. Orphaned at age 11
6. Entered show business in the mail room of Paramount Pictures
7. Created Rowan and Martin's Laugh-In with Dick Martin
8. Worked as the "straight man" with Dick Martin
9. Served as a fighter pilot in World War II
10. Died: September 22, 1987