Hollywood Memories with Scott Schwartz: From The Toy to Christmas Story

When Scott Schwartz was just an outgoing kid from New Jersey attending film club with his dad, he never imagined he'd soon be shooting a chocolate drink commercial with Yogi Berra, launching a career that would place him alongside some of comedy's greatest legends.

Scott takes us behind the curtain of his remarkable journey working with Richard Pryor and Jackie Gleason on "The Toy" – revealing how these comedy giants became personal mentors. "Pryor taught me about timing and being a storyteller," Scott shares, describing a friendship that lasted from their first meeting until Pryor's passing in 2005. Meanwhile, Gleason patiently taught the young actor how to shoot pool during production breaks, impressed by questions about old Hollywood that few 13-year-olds would know.

The conversation turns to "A Christmas Story" and the fascinating evolution of a modest film into an American institution. Scott reveals the brutal conditions behind filming the iconic flagpole scene ("between 20 and 24 below zero for nearly 12 hours") and how director Bob Clark encouraged his improvisation. Most surprisingly, we learn how the film sat relatively undiscovered for over a decade before Ted Turner happened to watch it with Jane Fonda, sparking the now-famous 24-hour Christmas marathon that reaches over 50 million homes annually.

Beyond acting, Scott shares his entrepreneurial ventures in the memorabilia world, including pioneering celebrity trading card collections that united his passion for collectibles with his entertainment connections. His stories provide a captivating glimpse into filmmaking's golden era when practical effects, genuine performances, and authentic storytelling could create timeless classics without massive budgets.

Whether you're a film buff, holiday movie enthusiast, or simply appreciate great storytelling, Scott's candid reflections on his unexpected journey through Hollywood invite you to see familiar classics through fresh eyes. Follow Scott on Facebook at "Scott Schwartz Actor" and watch for his upcoming book next September.