Biography of David Brenner

David Brenner was born and reared in the tough, poor sections of South and West Philadelphia. As a youth, he was a gang leader who used humor as a powerful weapon. In high school, he was elected class president each year and 'class comedian.' He then went to Temple University where he graduated with honors, majoring in mass communication.

Before stepping in front of the camera, Brenner enjoyed a successful career behind the camera as the writer producer director of 115 documentary films and headed the distinguished documentary departments of both Westinghouse Broadcasting and Metromedia Broadcasting. His documentary work earned him a total of nearly thirty industry awards and citations including an Emmy Award for his documentary, "On Call: Dr. Amato." In 1985, he was honored by the Broadcast Pioneers as Man of the Year for his contributions to the documentary field.

He left documentary work, taking off for one year to think about beginning a new career. During the interim, to pass the time, he performed stand-up comedy in small clubs in New York. His first paying job was at Pips in Brooklyn, earning $30 for eight performances. Then just short of eighteen months later, Brenner made his debut on "The Tonight Show," the appearance that launched his career. He accidentally found his new career.

In 1983, Brenner added another dimension to his career by writing his first book, "Soft Pretzels With Mustard." The bestseller, which contained anecdotal accounts from Brenner's life, went into multiple hardcover and paperback printings. The success from the first book inspired the publisher to sign Brenner to a multiple book deal. His second book, titled "Revenge Is The Best Exercise" is a hilarious and light-hearted look into our health conscious society. His third book, "Nobody Ever Sees You Eat Tuna Fish" was written in response to the demand for more stories and anecdotes about his multi-dimensional life. Brenner's latest book, titled, "If God Wanted Us to Travel..." is a humorous look at all aspects of travel. Included are stories from his personal travel experiences, helpful travel hints and a myriad of anecdotes.

Another project during 1990 was Brenner's "The I Hate To Work Out Workout Video." This highly acclaimed video earned praise from both video and exercise critics. But, it is important to note that this is not just another workout tape, because the particular approach and original humor is not found in any other workout.

In September, 1989 Brenner starred in his own one-man show on Broadway. "The Laughs and Times of David Brenner" is a two-hour show that takes the audience from Brenner's birth, right up to the moment he steps on stage for each show. The limited run engagement of this hilarious show was a smashing success with both audiences and critics.

Brenner's career achievements have been recognized by his fans and peers. He has been honored by the American Guild of Variety Artists (AGVA) as "Male Comedy Star of the Year." In a unique "double," Brenner was awarded "Best Comedian Headliner - Atlantic City" and "College Comedian of the Year" in the same year. This truly shows the great cross-sectional appeal of David Brenner. "The Book of Lists #2" recognized his popularity by citing Brenner as the number one most frequent guest on television.

Recently, he was appointed Honorary President of the Children’s Rights Council. a non-profit organization based in Washington, DC, that works to help children of separation and divorce. He currently resides in New York City.