Famous people are deceptive. Deep down, they're just regular people. Like Larry King. We've been friends for forty years. He's one of the few guys I know who's really famous. One minute he's talking to the president on his cell phone, and then the next minute he's saying to me, 'Do you think we ought to give the waiter another dollar?'

In this quote, Don Rickles, the legendary comedian known for his quick wit and sharp tongue, offers a humorous yet insightful take on fame and the humanity behind celebrity personas. By saying “Famous people are deceptive,” Rickles highlights the illusion that celebrity status creates. While the public often sees the glamor and importance surrounding famous individuals, Rickles suggests that, underneath it all, they are just regular people with everyday concerns, habits, and insecurities.

He illustrates this point through his longtime friend, Larry King, a well-known TV host and media icon. Rickles describes the surreal contrast between King talking to the President one moment and then agonizing over whether to tip the waiter another dollar the next. This anecdote emphasizes that even those with enormous influence and visibility still deal with mundane, relatable decisions, reminding us that fame doesn't erase basic human traits.

Rickles’s tone is both affectionate and grounded, showing admiration for King while also deflating the mystique that surrounds public figures. The quote serves as a reminder that celebrity culture often exaggerates or idealizes people who, in reality, share many of the same concerns and behaviors as everyone else. It’s a gentle critique of how society elevates celebrities, and a nod to the importance of humility and perspective.

The origin of this quote likely comes from Rickles’s interviews or memoirs, where he often shared behind-the-scenes glimpses into his relationships with other famous personalities. Known for his irreverent humor and ability to connect personally with stars and audiences alike, Rickles used stories like this to remind us that, regardless of fame, people remain human at their core.