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Howard Cosell
Roasts Bette Davis

Howard Cosell Roasts Bette Davis — a classic television roast performance.

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Howard Cosell Roasts Bette Davis

Howard Cosell was an unmistakable sports broadcaster whose booming voice, elaborate phrasing and combative interviewing style made him both famous and easy to parody. Bette Davis was one of classic Hollywood’s most celebrated dramatic actresses, famous for forceful performances, formidable screen presence and a famously independent personality.

In this clip, Howard Cosell turns that contrast into roast material, teasing Bette Davis with the affectionate exaggeration and show-business one-upmanship that defined the format.