Ed Simmons began his writing career partnering with Norman Lear to
write a monologue for Danny Thomas. The two went on to write for the
Ford Star Revue starring Jack Haley, The Colgate Comedy Hour with Dean
Martin and Jerry Lewis, and the Martha Raye show.
After he and Mr. Lear ended their partnership, he went on to write for
such stars as George Gobel, Dinah Shore, Red Skelton and Tom Jones. He
wrote for Jerry Lewis's variety show in the 1960s, and he is credited
with creating the "drunk" lounge singer act for Dean Martin when he
went solo. The pinnacle of Mr. Simmons's career was in the 1970s, when
he was the head writer/producer for the Carol Burnett show, winning
five Emmys.
Mr. Simmons was married and divorced three times, and had two children.