Mel Brooks

Check out a list of some of the best Mel Brooks films, from 'The Producers' and 'History of the World' to 'Spaceballs' and 'Robin Hood: Men in Tights.'

Mel Brooks got his start in comedy by accidentally flubbing a scene in a play and turning it into a fourth-wall-breaking joke, something that would later become a hallmark of his humor.

Mel Brooks said that learning how to drum as a kid taught him important rules about comedy, including how to structure a joke.

Mel Brooks served in World War II, including a stint clearing landmines at the Battle of the Bulge.

Mel Brooks got his first big break in 1950 as a writer on Sid Caesar's 'Your Show of Shows,' a pioneering TV variety show.

Mel Brooks wanted Richard Pryor, then a relatively fresh stand-up comic, to star in 1974's 'Blazing Saddles,' but Warner Bros worried that he was not reliable enough for a leading role.

George Lucas gave Mel Brooks his blessing to release his 'Star Wars' parody 'Spaceballs,' though he had one condition: 'Spaceballs' could not sell merchandise.

Mel Brooks served as an uncredited producer on David Lynch's film 'The Elephant Man' because he didn't want people to assume it was a lighthearted comedy.

Brooks' Broadway adaptation of 'The Producers' was a massive hit when it debuted in 2001, and broke a record for most Tony wins.

Mel Brooks became an EGOT winner in 2001, meaning he's been awarded an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar, and a Tony.