The great Carl Reiner passed away this week, at the too-young age of 98. I saw “too-young” because Reiner was still creating, writing children books and posting witty pon mots on Twitter. There were a lot of great ideas still being generated from brilliant comedy mind, and now no more will be forthcoming.
Accolades and praise for Reiner came from almost everywhere, from fans and friends such as Steve Martin, Mel Brooks, Harry Shearer, Dick Van Dyke, and countless others. So my thoughts are but a drop in the ocean, but I wanted to highlight an aspect of Reiner that should get more attention. His leadership.
Yes, leadership. Reiner was a comedy leader, in that he set the direction for projects, provided a kind guiding hand, and more often than not let colleagues have the spotlight. Here’s some of the key examples of his selfless leadership:
The Dick Van Dyke Show
Carl Reiner was originally supposed to star in this show – Yes, I know, it’s strange to think of Reiner playing Rob Petrie, but he original pilot (created by Reiner) was called Head of The Family. The network looked at it, loved the premise… but didn’t think Reiner worked as the lead. Any lesser man would have been offended, taken his toys and went home… Or forced the network to accept him as the show’s title character. Instead Reiner said, “Fine, I’ll cast someone else. I’ll just write and produce it.”
Due to his lack of ego Dick Van Dyke was cast, and what could have become a one-season show became a comedy legend . Reiner later played the abrasive boss Alan Brady (in addition to directing several episodes) and wrote “showcase” episodes for the cast, giving everyone a moment to shine.
Knowing what you are good at and what you are not – and handing over the reins to someone who is a better fit for a job – is the mark of a good leader. Reiner did this throughout his professional life.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHStKXuBzlM
The 2,000 Year Old Man
Mel Brooks and Carl Reiner originally started doing this routine for parties, and someone decided that it would make a pretty good album. It was released to much acclaim and became a cultural phenomenon.
Much like he had done on many Your Show of Shows sketches, Reiner was the “anchor” for the routine. He played a reporter, asking Brooks’ 2000 year old man character questions (“You knew Jesus?” “Yes, nice boy, well behaved..”). Brooks got all the laughs, which was fine by Reiner. Like all good leaders, Reiner knew that he was a member of a team, and if one member of the team looks good they all look good.
The Jerk
Steve Martin was HOT, and his first movie “The Jerk” was to be a make-or-break moment for his future. Could he transition from stand up to movie star? The choice of director was a key one, and Martin knew it. His choice was Carl Reiner. Reiner “ran a joyous set” according to Martin, continuing the tradition he set with The Dick Van Dyke show to establish a welcome collaborative atmosphere. He gave the cast and crew an environment where new ideas could be tried without fear. The resulting film was both very funny and incredibly successful.
Leaders create an environment where people can do their best work, and where people are happy to come to the job every day. Obviously, Reiner did that in this and many other instances, helping produce great work we will continue to enjoy.
Closing
So rest in peace Carl Reiner. We’ll miss you, but your work will live on… But just as important, your comedy leadership was exemplary. Creating a positive environment, taking your ego out of the equation, and setting people up for success is how all of us should lead our teams.
Thanks for everything.