The Stan Dreben Papers, 1950-1979 and undated, contain scripts, sketches and development materials created by comedy writer Stan Dreben. The bulk of the collection represents Dreben’s work in television and includes produced and unproduced game shows, variety programs, specials and episodic series. In addition, the collection consists of manuscripts and development materials for film and theatrical projects, as well as jokes and skits written for popular comedy performers.

Stan Dreben (1918–1980) was a comedy writer and producer for over 35 years, primarily known for incorporating jokes and other comedic material into television game shows, such as The Hollywood Squares, Funny You Should Ask, Treasure Hunt and Letters to Laugh-In. His writing credits comprised popular television variety shows, specials and situation comedies, including The Dean Martin Celebrity Roasts, The Andy Griffith Show, McHale’s Navy and The Facts of Life. In addition to his television’s work, Dreben developed several motion picture projects, plays and musical revues. Throughout his career he wrote material for many of the entertainment industry’s top comedians, namely Red Skelton, Milton Berle, Joey Bishop, Jan Murray, Jackie Gleason and Phyllis Diller. Dreben died February 16, 1980 at his home in Northridge, California at the age of 61.

7 Boxes, 6.5 linear feet

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Majority of materials stored off site. One week advance notice required for retrieval.