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Irving Jacobson Dead at 80

December 19, 1978
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Irving Jacobson, a onetime star of the Yiddish theater, died Sunday at the age of 80. Jacobson appeared in the Yiddish theater for more than 20 years. One of his best known performances was in the 1938 production of “Yiddisha Mama.” He appeared with Molly Picon in the comedy, “Abi Gezunt.” He was also a producer and director.

Outside of the Yiddish theater, Jacobson was best known for playing Sancho in “Man of La Mancha” on Broadway. He appeared throughout the seven-year Broadway run starting in 1965 and then toured with the national company. He also appeared in the 1966 film, “The Art of Love.” Born in Cincinnati, Jacobson came to New York City as a youth. He was honored as the “Man of the Year” in 1966 by the East Side Hebrew Institute.

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