After complaining for literally decades about “never getting a dinner,” the legendary funny man, Red Buttons, finally was treated to an all out roast by some of the biggest legends of comedy at the 49^th annual Thalians Ball to benefit the Thalians Mental Health Center at Cedars Sinai Medical Center.  Held at the Century Plaza in Los Angeles on November 7, Don Rickles insulted Buttons in his usual comic discourtesy; Ronn Lucas’ puppet chattered on about Button’s age and the long-legged, pony-tailed Carol Channing towered over Thalians president and actress, Debbie Reynolds, while she characteristically forgot what she was saying. 

   Known as “Hollywood’s First Celebrity Charity,” the Thalians bestowed Buttons with the Walt Disney designed Goofy “Mr. Wonderful” statuette.  The award was presented for Button’s contributions to the world of entertainment.  Chaired by LA’s most prolific fundraiser and glamour-puss, Ruta Lee, the Thalians also brought in Norm Crosby (TV comedy producer), George Schlatter, Joanne Worley, Ruth Buzzi, Jack Klugman, Phyllis Diller, Alex Trebek and Rich Little. Bryon Velvick of ABC-TV’s "The Bachelor” made an appearance (with this mother) and presented a rose to the ball’s underwriter, Redken heiress, Paula Kent Meehan.

In one of the most touching and sincere moments of the evening, the handsomely bearded Dennis Miller stood up to give his two cents. As if he were humbled by the comic parental units surrounding him, Miller told the audience that his usual trepidation to venture into “the city” (of Los Angeles) from his enclave in Santa Barbara was overcome by his veneration for Buttons. He described how deeply Button’s “authenticity” and comic genius inspired him to move forward with a career in an otherwise jaded industry. 

Miller marveled at Button’s ability to not only be funny, but to appear on screen and stage as if Button’s “wasn’t really acting.”

“I was convinced after seeing him in (MGM”s) 'Sayonara' that he really was as authentic and as good a man as he appeared on screen,” said Miller. The moment that Miller finished his soliloquy, he made a beeline exit to return to his beachside solace; taking off his tie as he walked through the crowd.

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