Jim J. Bullock recalls 'awful' encounter with Milton Berle

Jim J. Bullock is reflecting on an unpleasant memory from the early days of his television career, revealing that working alongside comedy icon Milton Berle on Hollywood Squares left a lasting negative impression.

Speaking during a Too Close for Comfort reunion panel at Fanboy Expo Knoxville, the 71-year-old actor candidly described Berle as one of the most difficult people he had ever worked with. 

Bullock recalled appearing as a guest on Hollywood Squares before becoming a regular panelist, when producers devised a comedy sketch involving him climbing into Berle's square and being hit in the face with a pie.

According to Bullock, the atmosphere changed before filming when Berle insisted on controlling every aspect of the routine. 

As per People, the actor alleged that Berle dismissed his comedic instincts and instructed him to follow his directions exactly, while also making a derogatory remark about Bullock's personality. 

Bullock said he ignored his own instincts because he assumed the veteran entertainer "knew best."

The sketch ultimately failed to land with the audience, Bullock recalled, leaving him covered in whipped cream as he returned to his position on the game show.

Looking back, he said the moment felt awkward and outdated, adding that he "didn't care for" Berle after the encounter.

Berle, often known as "Mr. Television," was one of the medium's earliest stars and a frequent Hollywood Squares panelist before his death in 2002.