Noshing With Samuel Garza Bernstein – August 14, 2025

(Photo by Joshua Michael Shelton) This week on "Ira’s Everything Bagel," Ira sits down with Samuel Garza Bernstein, author of "Cesar Romero: The Joker Is Wild." Samuel shares the story behind Romero’s unforget-table Joker laugh—and how Cesar graciously performed it for fans everywhere, from busy airports to city streets. Drawing on his own show business background, Samuel reveals how his agent nudged him toward writing the book, leading to a deep dive into the USC cinema library’s treasure trove of Romero’s early life. From suave leading man to versatile Latino character actor, Romero brought humanity to every role—whether sharing the screen with Shirley Temple, playing his most dramatic characters, or stealing scenes as Batman’s maniacal nemesis, leaving “no prisoners.” Samuel recounts Romero’s love of dancing, his reinvention over decades in Hollywood, the surprising truths he uncovered, and the way Cesar supported his once-wealthy family through his success. It’s a portrait of a man who took his craft seriously, lived life with flair, and left an indelible mark on Hollywood history. (Also Watch Full Podcast Video)