
07/21/2025
Rose Marie's unforgettable audition changed television history, securing her a place as one of the first and finest female comedians in sitcom history.
By 1960, Rose Marie was already a well-established name in the entertainment industry, having started her career in vaudeville and moved seamlessly through radio and television. Yet, it wasnât until 1961, when she auditioned for Carl Reinerâs upcoming sitcom The Dick Van D**e Show, that she would truly cement her place in television history.
Reiner needed an actress who could bring wit, charm, and impeccable comedic timing to the role of Sally Rogers, the sharp-tongued yet lovable comedy writer. Rose Marie was a perfect fit. She entered the audition room with her usual confidence, and before she could even finish her lines, Carl Reiner burst out laughing. âYouâre hired,â he declaredâan instant, rare moment in Hollywood where a role was secured before the audition was even completed.
That audition marked the beginning of a legendary run for Rose Marie on The Dick Van D**e Show, which premiered on October 3, 1961. Her chemistry with Morey Amsterdam, who played Buddy Sorrell, was immediate, and their long-standing friendship in the comedy circuit made their on-screen banter effortless. Together, they made Sally and Buddy one of the most beloved dynamics in television history.
Throughout the showâs five-season run, Rose Marieâs portrayal of Sally Rogers broke new ground. She played one of the few strong, independent female professionals on TV at the time. Sally was far more than a sidekickâshe was integral to the showâs humor and heart, with Rose Marie bringing both comedic brilliance and depth to the role.
Looking back at her audition, Rose Marie always took pride in the moment Carl Reiner recognized her talent so quickly. That decision to cast her not only shaped her career but also changed the landscape of sitcoms, ensuring that her legacy as one of the pioneering female comedians in television history would endure.
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