Joe Besser was born in 1907 and is the only Stooge to use his real name in show business. Like the other Stooges, he was interested in performing even at a young age. His parents encouraged him to follow his dreams. 

Joe began his career at the age of 13, as an assistant to magician Howard Thurston. He later went solo with his act and one of his biggest fans was Lou Costello, of the famous comedy team "Abbott and Costello." Joe and Lou were such close friends that Joe was even invited to Lou's home at Christmas.¹⁰ Joe appeared in several Abbott and Costello films and was a regular on their television show, playing a character named "Stinky."

During Joe's career in Vaudeville, he met his wife, Erna Kay, whose nickname was "Ernie." They married in 1932.

Joe Besser joined The Three Stooges in January, 1956 after Shemp died. Joe made sure that his contract included a clause prohibiting Moe from doing bodily harm to him, and he took fewer punches and hits than the other Stooges. Although his character was more of a sissy that Larry or Curly, he actually hit Moe back with regularity. ¹¹

Joe's career with The Three Stooges was short; he had been with the team only two years when their contract was cancelled by Columbia Studios, leaving all three Stooges unemployed. Joe had a solo appearance in a film, Say One for Me, in 1959. He also appeared in several Jerry Lewis comedies and provided the voice on several cartoons.

Joe Besser died on March 1, 1988 from heart failure.