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From the Archives: Harry Anderson Cons His Way On TV.

Con-man-turned actor Harry Anderson. Anderson is best known as Judge Harry Stone on the former NBC comedy series "Night Court." Anderson began his con-man career as a street performer. He eventually drifted to San Francisco where he would perform near Fisherman's Wharf or to lines of moviegoers outside theaters. He then graduated to Las Vegas, opening for acts like Kenny Rogers. Appearances on "Saturday Night Live" and in various television shows led to his work on "Night Court." Anderson put his cons and schemes into a book, "Games You Can't Lose: A Guide for Suckers." In the introduction, titled "Hello, Sucker!," Anderson states his intent: "It's not whether you win or lose ... it's whether I win or lose." (REBROADCAST FROM 5/5/89)

07:23

Other segments from the episode on April 1, 1994

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, April 1, 1994: Interview with Harry Anderson; Interview with Ricky Jay; Interview with James Randi; Interview with Penn Jillette; Review of the film "House of the Spirits."

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Transcripts are created on a rush deadline, and accuracy and availability may vary. This text may not be in its final form and may be updated or revised in the future. Please be aware that the authoritative record of Fresh Air interviews and reviews are the audio recordings of each segment.

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