Barry Gordon is one of those rare entertainers who found success across several stages of life. He began his career as a child singer and actor, became a prolific voice artist, led the Screen Actors Guild for a record-breaking term, and eventually became a respected political commentator and educator. Known first for his 1955 Christmas hit “Nuttin’ for Christmas,” Gordon has worn many hats—always with intellect and versatility.
| Full Name | Barry Gordon |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | December 21, 1948 |
| Birthplace | Brookline, Massachusetts, USA |
| Occupations | Actor, Voice Actor, Singer, Talk Show Host, Lecturer |
| Genres | Pop, Children’s Music |
| Years Active | 1951–present |
| Major Hit | “Nuttin’ for Christmas” (#6 Billboard Hot 100, 1955) |
| Known For | Longest-serving SAG president, voice of Donatello in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles |
| Other Notable Roles | A Thousand Clowns (Tony-nominated), Fish, Alfred Hitchcock Presents |
| Education | California State University, Los Angeles; Loyola Law School (J.D.) |
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born on December 21, 1948, in Brookline, Massachusetts, Barry Gordon was destined for the spotlight. His stepfather, Bob Manning, was a singer known for his version of “The Nearness of You.” By age three, Barry had already entered showbiz. He made his debut on Ted Mack’s Amateur Hour, singing Johnny Ray’s “Cry” and placing second.
“Nuttin’ for Christmas”: A Childhood Hit
At just six years old, Gordon recorded “Nuttin’ for Christmas”, a novelty holiday tune written by Sid Tepper and Roy C. Bennett. Released by MGM Records and backed by Art Mooney and His Orchestra, the song became an instant seasonal hit.
In December 1955, it reached:
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#6 on the Billboard Hot 100
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Became one of the best-selling Christmas songs of its time
The B-side of the single was “Santa Claus Just Looks Like Daddy.” Despite his age, Gordon’s performance captured the mischievous charm the lyrics demanded. The song remains a staple during the holiday season.
Other Songs and Recordings
Barry Gordon followed up with several more novelty and children’s songs, including:
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“Rock Around Mother Goose” – reached #52 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1956
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“Seven”
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“I Can’t Whistle”
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“The Milkman’s Polka”
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“Zoomah, the Santa Claus from Mars”
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“I Like Christmas (I Like It, I Like It)”
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“Yes Sir, That’s My Baby”
While none matched the success of “Nuttin’ for Christmas,” these songs reinforced Gordon’s popularity as a child entertainer.
Transition to Acting and Broadway
By the late 1950s and early 1960s, Gordon was transitioning to acting. His debut film appearance came in The Girl Can’t Help It (1956). He later appeared in:
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The Spirit Is Willing (1967)
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Summer Playhouse (1964)
His most notable early acting role was in A Thousand Clowns, both the Broadway play and the 1965 film. His performance earned him a Tony Award nomination, solidifying his reputation as a serious young actor.
Television Career
Gordon had a steady stream of TV appearances, including:
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The Jackie Gleason Show
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The Jack Benny Program (1954–1961)
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Alfred Hitchcock Presents (1960)
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Make Room for Daddy (1956)
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Sally (1957)
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The New Dick Van Dyke Show (1973–1974)
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Fish (1977–1978), playing Charlie Harrison
These roles showcased his range, from comedic timing to dramatic chops.
Voice Acting Fame
In the 1970s and 1980s, Gordon carved a second successful career in voice acting, working on many animated series:
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Tarzan, Lord of the Jungle (1976–1979)
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The Kid Super Power Hour with Shazam! (1981)
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Smurfs (1981)
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Pac-Man (1982)
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Pole Position (1984)
His most famous voice role came in Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1987–1996), where he voiced Donatello and Bebop. For a generation of fans, his voice defined the tech-savvy turtle.
Screen Actors Guild President
In 1988, Gordon was elected President of the Screen Actors Guild (SAG). He served until 1995, becoming the longest-serving SAG president in history. During his tenure, he was known for:
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Supporting labor rights and actors’ benefits
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Negotiating contracts for better pay and protection
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Advocating for diversity and equity in casting
His leadership left a lasting impact on the industry.
Academic Pursuits and Law School
Despite his fame, Gordon returned to education in his mid-30s. He attended California State University, Los Angeles, where he earned a degree in political science with highest honors. He later obtained a J.D. from Loyola Law School, showcasing his deep interest in public policy and governance.
Talk Show Host and Political Commentator
Combining his love for politics and media, Gordon became a talk show host, focusing on political and social issues. He worked across:
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Radio
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Public-access television
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Internet platforms
In 2008, he launched Left Talk, one of his first major internet-based shows. His commentary was progressive, thoughtful, and rooted in his academic training.
He also lectured on politics, media, and law at his alma mater, California State University, sharing decades of experience with new generations.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
Barry Gordon’s career spans:
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Child stardom
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Stage and screen acting
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Groundbreaking voice work
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Union leadership
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Political education
He is one of the few performers to move fluidly through these roles while making meaningful contributions in each.
His Christmas classic “Nuttin’ for Christmas” remains a beloved novelty tune, played annually during the holidays. Meanwhile, his voice continues to be recognized by animation fans, especially those who grew up with the Ninja Turtles.
Fun Facts
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Gordon’s hit “Nuttin’ for Christmas” was co-credited to Art Mooney and His Orchestra, a popular bandleader at the time.
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He became SAG president at age 39, a relatively young age for such a role.
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He was one of the first entertainers to fully embrace internet radio and podcasting as platforms for political discourse.
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His performance in A Thousand Clowns remains one of the most acclaimed child performances in American theater.
Conclusion
Barry Gordon’s life and career reflect a rare blend of early fame, artistic evolution, and intellectual growth. From holiday records to cartoon heroes and union leadership, he has left a mark on entertainment and public thought. Whether through a Christmas classic or a campus lecture hall, Gordon’s voice continues to resonate—clear, thoughtful, and full of purpose.