Jackie Barnett; Producer, Writer for Jimmy Durante

Jackie Barnett, 72, producer and writer who penned material for comedian Jimmy Durante for 15 years and became known as “the man behind the schnozzle.” During more than 43 years in show business, Barnett earned five Emmy Award nominations, two Grammys for Sidney Poitier albums and won a Peabody Award for “Jimmy Durante Meets the Lively Arts.” He met Durante in 1950 when he burst into Durante’s apartment doing an impersonation of the comedian, and quickly became top writer and producer for Durante’s television show. Barnett also wrote for Bob Hope, Eddie Cantor, Frank Sinatra, Perry Como and Ethel Merman. Barnett later produced records, Las Vegas shows, and sports events such as the tennis match between Bobby Riggs and Billie Jean King. At his death, he was president of Jaybar Enterprises. On Feb. 27 in Marina del Rey after a long illness.