Alan Abel (born April 12, 1930) is an American actor, writer, comedian, and producer. He is best known for his work in television and film, such as The Love Boat, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, and Airplane!
Abel was born in Brooklyn, New York and grew up in the Bronx. He attended the High School of Music and Art and later studied at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. Abel's career began on the stage, performing in such plays as The Seven Year Itch, The Show Off, and The Gazebo.
In the 1960s, Abel made his television debut, appearing on shows such as The Danny Thomas Show, The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis, The Dick Van Dyke Show, and The Beverly Hillbillies. He also had recurring roles on McHale's Navy and The Patty Duke Show.
During the 1970s, Abel continued to appear on television, including roles on All in the Family, Sanford and Son, Kojak, M*A*S*H, and The Love Boat. He also starred in the sitcoms Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman and The Mary Tyler Moore Show, for which he was nominated for an Emmy Award.
In the 1980s, Abel appeared in the films Airplane!, The Blues Brothers, and The Muppets Take Manhattan. He also continued to appear on television, most notably in the sitcoms Night Court and Empty Nest.
In the 1990s, Abel appeared in films such as HouseSitter and Son in Law, and continued to appear on television, including roles on Murphy Brown, Friends, and The Drew Carey Show.
Abel has also appeared in television movies, such as The Third Twin, Just a Walk in the Park, and I Know What You Did. As a producer, he has worked on television movies such as A Letter to Three Wives, The Great Gilly Hopkins, and The Fragile Heart.
Throughout his career, Abel has received numerous awards and nominations, including an Emmy Award nomination and a CableACE Award for his roles in The Mary Tyler Moore Show and A Letter to Three Wives. Abel has continued to act and produce, and is still active in the entertainment industry.
