Adam Sandler, an icon in the comedy world, began his illustrious journey on “The Cosby Show” as Theo Huxtable’s memorable friend, Smitty. This early role, though short-lived with just four episodes, laid the foundation for a career that would span almost 40 years. Many were first introduced to Sandler through “Saturday Night Live”, yet it was Bill Cosby who played a pivotal role in shaping his comedic style. In a revealing 2013 interview, Sandler reflected on the influence Cosby had on his generation, highlighting Cosby’s impeccable comedic timing. Cosby’s advice to a young Sandler, urging him to maintain a cleaner act, seems to have resonated, evident in Sandler’s shift towards family-friendly films like “50 First Dates”. Yet, the shadow of Cosby’s later controversies and allegations contrasts with these fond memories, leaving Sandler in a reflective state about his early career and the complexities surrounding his first mentor.
